The Age-Friendly Community Initiative has been working hard in our community for eight and a half years. We are proud of our mission – “to explore ways to make the community more supportive of healthy aging and to enable people to stay in their own homes and communities as they age” – and are always looking for ways to strengthen our work. We’d love you to join us.

There are many slots – perhaps on our Board, helping to analyze needs and fine-tune one of the many proven ways to make positive community change. Or – if that doesn’t suit you – maybe helping on a single project.

We are reviewing our N2N Rides program and, among other things, are looking for people to join our crew of call coordinators. It requires taking a stint at responding to our phone-answering machine requests for service, as well as minimal computer skills.

Our Handy Neighbor Program, in collaboration with Telstar, NorthStar, and the Bryant Pond 4-H Camp and Learning Center, is up and running again. There are two upcoming work days, October 19 and 20, when Telstar students will perform simple household tasks for older adults. There may still be openings – call our service number (below) to see. And there will be chores opportunities in the future – watch for news.

Maine’s Dementia Inclusivity Program, working to enhance the lives of those living with Dementia, has been rolled out in the Bethel area. Created by Chrys Snogren and a team of MMGM (Maine Mineral and Gem Museum) staff members, and assisted by Nancy Davis, a fellow in the Maine Lifelong Communities Program, Kelcy Arciga, Bethel Library director, and Will Chapman, Bethel Historical Society executive director, dementia-friendly kits are now available at the Bethel Library to be checked out as books are. Go take a look!

Community
The Bethel Food Pantry and District Exchange are now located together at 279 Walkers Mill Road, just across from Telstar. Open every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday 9-11.

For more information on local events: bethelmaine.com and thegemtheater.com.

All AFCI services are free. To request an N2N ride or other service: 207-824-4444. For information, inquiries, and suggestions – email: agefriendlybethel@gmail.com, visit our Facebook page or website, www.agefriendlybethel.org. We love to hear from you!

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