We are proud that the Bethel Region Age-Friendly Community Initiative has been chosen as a pilot site for a new program funded and managed by the Center on Aging at the University of Maine. Through the program, a part-time position has been funded for the period from now through August 31, 2025. This stipended volunteer position will be filled by Melinda Remington of Bethel.
The mission of the Community Connector Program is “to link community residents to essential services and social opportunities in the SAD #44 area of Western Maine,” so Melinda is well-suited for the position. She will work closely with the AFCI Board of Directors and with important agencies, non-profits, and other providers serving the AFCI community. The state’s participating pilot communities will work closely with their local Area Agency on Aging, and a specially funded Connector position in each participating agency will facilitate that work. Western Maine’s agency is Seniors Plus; we’re looking forward to close collaboration between their Connector, Debbie Bechard, and Melinda.
The Handy Neighbor Program is a collaboration among AFCI (headed by Charlie Raymond and Charlie Reiss), Telstar’s NorthStar Program (headed by Lyndsey Smith), and some local Rotarians. The Fall Days of Service will be Thursday, November 7, and Friday, November 8. If you’d like help with fall chores, call AFCI’s phone number (824-4444); someone will call you back to schedule a work session.
AFCI friends and Board members have been participating in an exciting initiative developed by Telstar history teacher Dee Johansen. Students are interviewing older adults about their memories of the 20th century. The interviews have been very rich and informative – and fun! The resulting stories will be shared in several ways, including with the Bethel Historical Society. We love the extension of our intergenerational opportunities.
To request N2N free rides, Handy Neighbor Household Chores, or free Home Assessments: 207-824-4444. For more information or inquiries and suggestions – email: agefriendlybethel@gmail.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org.
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