The New Year has started well for the Age-Friendly Community Initiative! We have welcomed 8 new Board members; the full Board: Alison Aloisio, Brie Weisman, Charlie Raymond (Bethel Rep), Charlie Reiss (Woodstock Rep), Eileen Broderick, Julie Hart, Katina Colombotos, Kelsie Murek, Marilyn Difillipo (Hanover Rep), Melinda Remington, Nancy Davis, Paula Wheeler, Tim LeConey, and Wendy Hanscom (Newry Rep).

We also are proceeding nicely on two new projects that will implement the new arm of our mission – that is, serving in more specific ways to connect community members, especially older adults, with available services. You’ll be hearing more – and we’ll be eager for your ideas and your help.

And, as always:
The AFCI Winter Walk the Gym program is helping many older adults (and others) to maintain a walking regimen even on these risky-weather days. They meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1-2 p.m. at the Gould Academy Field House, where they can walk in a warm, safe environment with friends old and brand-new.

It’s a great social opportunity as well as good for your health! Everyone walks (and rests) at their own pace. It’s free, and you can call for an N2N ride to the activity.

N2N, our Neighbor to Neighbor free rides program, helps many community members get to educational, spiritual, and healthy activities, as well as fun events – and even just visiting a friend. We can also deliver library books, food from the Food Pantry, and groceries from Mainely Provisions in Bethel.

Call the service organization (library, etc.); then call our N2N service number (below) and leave a message with your ride request and contact information. Our drivers are happy to help you on a long-term basis or just temporarily – what if you broke a leg?

Community

The Bethel Food Pantry and District Exchange are at 279 Walkers Mill Road, just across from Telstar.
Open every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday 9-11. For more inmformation on local events: bethelmaine.com and thegemtheater.com. Many live music events.

Every Wednesday night at the Bethel Resort and Suites – $10 burgers and Trivia Night competition.

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