Recent Newsletters

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★★ March 2024 Newsletter ★★

* The Value of Differences *

It is the Mission of Villages NW “to create dynamic, intentionally inclusive, caring communities that connect, engage, and support older adults as they maintain active and purposeful lives.”

Many of our Villages have similar mission statements that distill their values and guiding principles. There is common understanding of the desire to create communities in which Villagers can thrive with services and activities designed to enhance daily life and allow members to age in the home of their choosing. Words like ‘respect’ and ‘honor’ are often found in Village documents. Commonly recurring themes include connection between members and the community, respect for all people and their identities regardless of race, ethnicity, faith, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status. Multi-generational families, families of choice and families of origin are other elements of our Village communities.

In our neighbors, Villages represent a microcosm of the melting pot that has made America strong.

Our neighbors may not look exactly like us, sound exactly like us, go to the same church, eat the same foods, or sing the same songs. Our neighbors may, in fact, be immigrants whose sense of ‘family’ has been painfully altered, or the disenfranchised who are looking for ‘home’ and an anchor that indicates ‘belonging’. Aspiration and dreams of being included in a caring community depend upon people like Villagers who will open our minds and our hearts to those whose life experiences may be much different from ours.

The NY Times ‘Opinion Today’ article suggests that we often turn to artists to help us understand the plight of exiled, disenfranchised, displaced individuals and what happens when artists can’t go home. There is good evidence that younger immigrant workers bring entrepreneurship, contributions to science, research, innovation, and creativity to music, dance, art, literature, food, and other aspects of culture.

According to an article in the Washington Post, journalist Catherine Rampell reported that, “Immigration is a gift to the economy.”

The Congressional Budget Office predicts that the increased size of the labor force will compensate for the dwindling number of native-born aging and retiring workers.

Jerome Powell, Federal Reserve Chair credits the strength of the US labor market “to immigration returning to levels that were more typical before COVID closed our borders.”

It is estimated that our newly energized labor force will boost the GDP by $7 trillion and improve revenue by $1 trillion in the coming decade, improving both the general economy and tax coffers.

Our Villages use an amazing volunteer base to build their community regardless of the national economy. There is great value, beyond dollars, in cross-cultural, cooperative, and welcoming projects that may deepen the ability of more neighbors to help more neighbors stay neighbors. Input from community members’ experiences, talents, skills, and cultural influences allows them to make meaningful contributions.

In our world-famous melting pot, access to education, jobs, and leadership roles determine the status of Americans. Even those of us who may not be recent immigrants but may be underserved, victims of the wealth gap, and feeling a lack of power in leadership, can find ‘home’ in the Village community and can contribute beyond dollars.

Being true to our mission, thinking creatively, and demonstrating a colorblind respect for our neighbors; Villagers will expand our base for a cohesive, respectful community where everyone wins! The tapestry of the community will be woven with more beautiful colors, art will touch our imaginations, songs will permeate the air, a richer sampling of foods will fill our bellies, and peace will soothe our daily actions. Mutual respect between neighbors will build a solid community base that cannot be easily undone by hateful, divisive rhetoric.

As we assist our aging population make choices about the desire to be ‘home’, let’s not forget our other neighbors as well. With respect and open minds, we will enhance the community that surrounds ‘home’ in any sense of the word. Villages will remain strong and serve as fine examples of ‘community’ when we harvest and celebrate the bounty that comes from our differences, not just our sameness.

~ Nancy Doty

* New member to the Villages NW Board of Directors *
Jenny Sherman

Please help us welcome Jenny Sherman to the Villages NW Board of Directors. For more than a year, Jenny has been volunteering with the Villages NW HR Team and the Employee Support Work Group. In February, she facilitated the Board of Directors’ retreat. Jenny originally got involved with Villages pre-pandemic when a group was exploring the possibility of developing a Village in Tigard, King City, and Tualatin.

Jenny is a retired Human Resources Director having worked in a variety of industries that include early years in banking and insurance and later years in higher education and healthcare. Most recently Jenny worked in long term care and hospice organizations. She has volunteered in many non profit organizations including the Colorectal Cancer Alliance as a founding member of the Portland Walk to End Colon Cancer, Care Partners Hospice Board, Clackamas County Long Term Care Panel, and Bankwork$.

Jenny’s professional experience includes analysis of compensation and benefits, working through complex employee relations situations that include conflict, disability accommodations, leaves of absence, performance improvements and a variety of employee needs. She has done leadership education and facilitated Board retreats. She is a certified professional in HR and in compensation.

In her free time, Jenny enjoys gardening, traveling, spending time with family, and social activities.

We are delighted to have her wealth of experience, talents, and enthusiasm to support our Villages.

* Get to Know Our Villages! *

Anyone who is interested in learning more about our Villages is invited to attend the informational events below.

Join your Eastside Village hosts virtually as we discuss EV volunteering and membership on Saturday, March 9 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. We will outline what we have been up to historically. Registration is recommended.

An informational session for prospective members, volunteers, or anyone interested in Viva Village. Please join us online on Saturday, March 9 from 10 am – 11:30 am. Register on the website or contact the office for the Zoom link.

From North Star Village member Anjala Ehelebe: You’re invited to our Village 101, an introduction to villages in general and North Star Village in particular. I lead a Village 101 on the third Thursday of each month. This month’s 101 will be held on Thursday, March 14 at 3:13 pm. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or member, or have friends who’d be interested, join me for a fast and informative overview of our village. We’ll meet at Good Neighbor Pizzeria, located at 800 NE Dekum St., 97211. It is fully accessible, with seats available in the well-ventilated interior or at comfortable tables outdoors. Call North Star Village at 503-793-8518 to ask questions and to let us know you’ll be there. See our website for more information: https://northstarvillage.clubexpress.com/.

RiverWest Village invites anyone interested in aging better and learning more about how to become involved either as a member or volunteer to have a one-on-one conversation with a RiverWest volunteer. Call their office (503-495-4934) and request an Introductory Chat, or email info@riverwestvillage.org. You will be connected with a volunteer from their Outreach Team. Include your name, phone number, and email address in your message and RWV will be in touch with you soon!

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★★ February 2024 Newsletter ★★

* February – Heart Month *

February, the month of Valentine’s Day and chocolate—lots of chocolate! There is also Dark Chocolate Day, Chocolate Covered Nut Day, Hot Breakfast Month, Fettuccine Alfredo Day, National Canned Food Month, and American Heart Month.

Whew! All this talk about food…

That brings to mind our community members whose nutritional status may be compromised, despite all the talk about food. And especially for the elderly, food takes on great importance when nutritional status is a complicated facet of daily life.

In reviewing an article, “Malnutrition in the Elderly: A Multifactorial Failure to Thrive”, author Carol Evans, RNP, MS, MA, reports that 16% of community-dwelling Americans take in less than 1000 calories per day. If you’ve ever tracked your caloric intake, you know that 1000 calories per day isn’t much! When hospitalized, anywhere from 12-50% of inpatients are malnourished. Institutionalized elders are shown as 23-60% ‘malnourished’ based on unintentional weight loss and on lab reports. The numbers range greatly depending on the way data is collected and the reason for the admission to hospital or institutional care. Even at the lowest end of the range, the numbers are concerning.

There are, as the study indicates, a plethora of reasons for the malnourishment of our elders. Perhaps there is an underlying disease, depression, the effects of medication, difficulty eating (dental or swallowing problems), or a diminished sense of smell and taste resulting in less enjoyment of food.

Other important factors revolve around living alone, being homebound, isolation, and not having adequate medical care. All these elements are exacerbated by limited income.

Among the general population in Portland proper, DHS reports that around 12% of our citizens live at or below the poverty level (per federal definition of poverty). East Portland reports show that the numbers are even higher, up to 14%. Considered in its entirety, Multnomah County poverty levels rise to 17%. Washington County reports a little over 8% live in poverty.

Clackamas County employs the ALICE method: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—all of which attempts to measure the number of households that earn above the poverty level but still cannot afford the basic cost of living in their area. By that measure, the range is from 27-36% in recent years.

Our Rainy Day Village serves parts of Clatsop County and neighboring Tillamook County where the poverty levels are 12.9% and 12% respectively, according to 2022 US Census data.

As bleak as these numbers seem, they are even worse in the elderly segment of our population.

All this information indicates that we, as Villagers, might make a big difference to some of our elderly neighbors. Sharing meals, preparing our favorite heritage foods, including neighbors in food-centered celebrations, and helping our neighbors stay connected in the community will all be beneficial in keeping an interest in food and enhancing nutrition.

Food security should be a concern to each of us. If needed, we can help connect our neighbors to Food Stamps/ SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), the Oregon Foodbank Network (over 21 regional foodbanks), Meals on Wheels, and other food resources, we may enhance their ability to remain at home in good health.

Senior Centers and Aging & Disability case managers are an excellent source of further information. Your County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) will help make the appropriate connections to assist any efforts to keep our elder neighbors as healthy as possible.

Remember that February boasts celebrations for lots of chocolate in heart-shaped boxes, but it is also American Heart Month. Show your big Village-related heart and consider food and nutrition as key components of helping our neighbors remain healthy and thrive in the environment of their choice.

Home is where the heart is! Happy Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month. Eat heartily!

~ Nancy Doty

* What We Will Remember on Oregon Statehood Day *

On February 14, 1859, Oregon became the 33rd state of the United States.

As we Oregonians celebrate this anniversary, we celebrate a rich and complex history. Yet we should not forget the painful history that includes colonization, exclusion, and displacement of Native American tribes who lived in the region even before Statehood. Let us acknowledge and honor these very early inhabitants of the land and their ongoing struggles for justice and recognition.

One way to honor the colonized land of Oregon is to learn about the history and culture of the Native American groups who have lived in the area for thousands of years. According to the Oregon Encyclopedia, there were about 125 Native American groups in the region when the first Europeans arrived.

Some of the leading tribes were the Chinook, the Tillamook, the Calapooya, the Yamel, the Molala, the Clackamas, the Multnomah, the Santiam, the Coos, the Cayuse, the Northern Paiute, the Umatilla, the Nez Percé, the Bannock, the Modoc, and the Klamath. These tribes had diverse and rich traditions, languages, and ways of life that were disrupted by the arrival of settlers, traders, missionaries, and US government soldiers who introduced diseases, wars, treaties, reservations, assimilation policies, and termination acts.

Today, there are nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon, as well as several unrecognized and urban Native American communities. They have faced and overcome the many challenges and injustices imposed by colonization, discrimination, and displacement. Today, they strive to preserve and revitalize their heritage, identity, and rights in their ancestral homelands and beyond.

Very early in the development of our State, Chinese workers came to build railroads and work in mines and as manual laborers. Mostly the men came alone, hoping to find work that would allow them to send money back to their families at home in China. As domestic workers in the growing cities, neighborhood covenants ordered them (and all non-whites) to be gone by sundown. They were badly treated and exploited, and their dreams were often shattered.

Scrolling through history we also learn that Oregon was the only state to enter the Union with a Constitution that banned Black residents from citizenship, voting, owning property, and living in the state. Although these laws were later repealed, they reflected the racist attitudes and practices that pervaded the State’s politics, economy, and society: segregation, lynching, redlining, gentrification, police brutality, and other forms of oppression and marginalization. Still, many Black workers came to Oregon during WWII years to help build ships and other jobs that supported the war effort and helped our economy during the time of world conflict.

It was during the same war years of WWII that our Japanese neighbors were taken from their farms and businesses and relocated to camps away from the Pacific coast. The loss of property and loss of livelihoods caused grievous disruption to the entire Japanese community. Some were never able to recover their losses. Their lives were changed forever.

Now consider a role in creating new ‘history’ in Oregon. Our participation in the nonprofit Villages NW is an opportunity to follow the Mission “to create dynamic, inclusive, and caring communities that connect, engage, and support older adults as they maintain active and purposeful lives.”

Villages NW is part of the nationwide Village Movement, which is a grassroots initiative that empowers older adults to age in place by providing them with services, resources, and social activities in their own neighborhoods. Villages NW has nine local conceptual Villages in the Portland metro area and one along the North Oregon Coast, each with its own programming of activities, membership, and volunteers. By joining or supporting a Village, we can build relationships with neighbors, share stories and wisdom, learn from other cultures and perspectives, and contribute to the well-being, diversity, and resilience of our communities. In this way, we continue to heal the painful history of Oregon as we acknowledge, accept, and honor the early inhabitants of the land and those who helped our cities and farms flourish.

On Statehood Day, February 14, we will remember with respect, gratitude, healing, fairness, and justice as we recognize those who helped build Oregon. By learning about the history of the region, acknowledging the harm and injustice endured by whole groups of people, and by supporting their efforts for recognition and rights, Oregonians can celebrate the State anniversary with a deeper and more nuanced understanding of its past, present, and future.

By its Mission and deeds, Villages NW can help.

By guest contributor, Emily Engdahl

* Introducing a New Village *

Sunnyside East is developing a new Village in the Happy Valley/Clackamas area. Their sixth monthly meeting is scheduled for Friday, February 16th, 9:30 am at New Seasons Market, 15861 SE Happy Valley Town Center Dr, Happy Valley. Participants will be invited to brainstorm about using social media to increase awareness of the Village. SEV reports that they now have a monthly MailChimp newsletter and a Facebook page; they’re starting work on a website.

* Get to Know Our Villages! *

Anyone who is interested in learning more about our Villages is invited to attend the informational events below.

Join your Eastside Village hosts virtually as we discuss EV volunteering and membership on Saturday, February 10 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. We will outline what we have been up to historically. Registration is recommended.

An informational session for prospective members, volunteers, or anyone interested in Viva Village. Please join us online on Saturday, February 10 from 10 am – 11:30 am. Register on the website or contact the office for the Zoom link.

From North Star Village member Anjala Ehelebe: You’re invited to our Village 101, an introduction to villages in general and North Star Village in particular. I lead a Village 101 on the third Thursday of each month. This month’s 101 will be held on Thursday, February 15 at 3:13 pm. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or member, or have friends who’d be interested, join me for a fast and informative overview of our village. We’ll meet at Good Neighbor Pizzeria, located at 800 NE Dekum St., 97211. It is fully accessible, with seats available in the well-ventilated interior or at comfortable tables outdoors. Call North Star Village at 503-793-8518 to ask questions and to let us know you’ll be there. See our website for more information: https://northstarvillage.clubexpress.com/.

RiverWest Village invites anyone interested in aging better and learning more about how to become involved either as a member or volunteer to have a one-on-one conversation with a RiverWest volunteer. Call their office (503-495-4934) and request an Introductory Chat, or email info@riverwestvillage.org. You will be connected with a volunteer from their Outreach Team. Include your name, phone number, and email address in your message and RWV will be in touch with you soon!

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★★ January 2024 Newsletter ★★

* In 2024, I Resolve To… Volunteer! *

Now that 2023 is in the rear-view mirror, it is time to look ahead to the newly presented year and think about what you will do with it.

Have you thought about your resolution—the one you mean to keep this time? Does the year look like a blank slate that will offer the opportunity to try new things? Is there room to build in the activities that will renew your soul and spirit? Are you good at making room for new things before you surrender to the demands of everyday random demands?

There are so many ways to think about a resolution. It is important for your peace of mind, planning and organization, budget, relationships and health. Find a pathway through the maze of career, finances, relationships, health, home maintenance, and all the other demands you face. Stare them down! And decide on at least one thing you will do for yourself that will give you a healthy dose of self-worth and gratification.

Are you deciding whether this is the year you will schedule all your routine medical screenings in one month, or you will ask for a raise and seek advancement at work? Or maybe you are going to create a real budget and stick with it. Perhaps you will pursue a hobby that has interested you for some time. Maybe you are thinking about going to the health club to work on balance, strength, and flexibility. This may be the time you commit to spending more time with extended family and will even travel to see those who are far away.

All of those are very worthy goals and resolutions.

But the resolution that may bring you pleasure for myriad reasons could be giving yourself the gift of volunteering in a role that brings you pleasure and restores your soul.

We know that volunteering is good for the heart and the mind. It improves self-esteem. It can help build new relationships. Regular, repeated tasks and activities can help keep you organized. Offering yourself to others is a fabulous way to learn more about your community and your neighbors. You can offer your skills to others and learn new skills in the process, strengthen your current job performance or try new things along a different career path.

Like the unfurling of a spring blossom, you may find that volunteering gets more beautiful as you go along.

So now is the time – before your calendar starts to look like a word jumble – to look for ways you can do something for yourself and your community. Volunteer in little bits or big chunks. Meet new people or join others you already know who enjoy their volunteer roles. Get family members to partner with you for a family bonding experience. Look forward to the fulfilling aspects of giving of yourself and you will be healthier and happier for the effort.

And need I say it? Villages are an excellent place to spread your volunteer wings! Check us out at https://villagesnw.org/volunteer-2/ To be part of the Village in your area, follow the prompts and find out how to get started. Quickly, before your calendar fills up, give us a try. Your resolution to volunteer for Villages may be your best resolution ever!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

~ Nancy Doty

* Sunnyside East Village Underway! *

Sunnyside East is a developing Village in the Happy Valley/Clackamas area. For those interested in helping get the Village going, please join the two following planning meetings:

  • Friday, January 12, 9:30 am at Elka Bee’s, 12330 SE Sunnyside Rd, Clackamas. The agenda will include progress to date, volunteer opportunities and getting acquainted.
  • Friday, February 16, 9:30 am, also at Elka Bee’s.

Inquiries can be sent to carol.vandermiller@villagesnw.org. To track progress and stay informed on meeting dates, be sure to join the Sunnyside East Village Meetup group, https://www.meetup.com/village-at-happy-valley/.

* Get to Know Our Villages! *

Anyone who is interested in learning more about our Villages is invited to attend the informational events below.

Join your Eastside Village hosts virtually as we discuss EV volunteering and membership on Saturday, January 13 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. We will outline what we have been up to historically. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89541314807 Meeting ID: 895 4131 4807. To call-in, dial 1-971-247-1195

From North Star Village member Anjala Ehelebe: You’re invited to our Village 101, an introduction to villages in general and North Star Village in particular. I lead a Village 101 on the third Thursday of each month. This month’s 101 will be held on Thursday, January 18 at 3:13 pm. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or member, or have friends who’d be interested, join me for a fast and informative overview of our village. We’ll meet at Good Neighbor Pizzeria, located at 800 NE Dekum St., 97211. It is fully accessible, with seats available in the well-ventilated interior or at comfortable tables outdoors. Call North Star Village at 503-793-8518 to ask questions and to let us know you’ll be there. See our website for more information: https://northstarvillage.clubexpress.com/.

RiverWest Village invites anyone interested in aging better and learning more about how to become involved either as a member or volunteer to have a one-on-one conversation with a RiverWest volunteer. Call their office (503-495-4934) and request an Introductory Chat, or email info@riverwestvillage.org. You will be connected with a volunteer from their Outreach Team. Include your name, phone number, and email address in your message and RWV will be in touch with you soon!

Villages Clark County will host a Village 101 on Saturday January 13th from 10:30 am – 11:30 am in the Downtown Library, Skamania Room, 901 C St. Vancouver, WA for those who’d like to learn more about VCC and how you can “Age in Place.” Friends, family, and neighbors welcome!

Viva Village will host an Online Viva Village 101 on Saturday, January 13, from 10:00 am – 11:30 am. This is an informational session for prospective members, volunteers, or anyone interested in Viva Village. Register on the Website or contact the office for the Zoom link – by phone: 503-746-5082 or by email: vivavillageor@gmail.com.

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★★ December 2023 Newsletter ★★

* Hiraeth *

Discovering this word, hiraeth, has brought so much to mind. It is especially meaningful around holiday time when reminiscence plays a large role in our gatherings and celebrations.

“Hiraeth [heer’ eyth] a complex combination of emotions sparked by the bond between our heritage, traditions, land, and community.” This is a Welsh word that captures many nuances of the human soul. More than nostalgia, it is akin to a combination of emotion, reminiscence, daydreaming, and homesickness. It connects us to memories that begin in childhood and carries on through a mature desire to reconnect with our roots. It is a deep, nostalgic longing for a time, place, and persons no longer accessible.

In Wales this word can evoke wistfulness, yearning for connections, daydreaming, and deep longing. It is a recurrent theme in storytelling, folklore, poetry, and music. Perhaps it is an element in our holiday celebrations that is not fully understood yet is probably present more than we acknowledge or that we can articulate.

We all hope that the holidays are a time of good cheer and happiness. The twinkling lights, music, thoughtful gifts, and gatherings that include traditional foods, ceremonies, and celebrations. Think of all the seasonal celebrations that you’ve anticipated and enjoyed over the years. Remember the people that have made the days special. Who has made ‘seasons greetings’ a happy day when that special card, letter, or email comes through? Where does your memory take you when you go back into the years when family was intact or dear friends were close?

This is the time of year when we put our best foot forward, a smile on our face, and a lift in the voice that suggests excitement. For some who are very fortunate, the memory of many happy years of remembrances will be a warm and soothing balm, even when those days are gone forever.

Ask your friends and family to tell you the story of “Once upon a time, many holiday seasons ago…”, and find joy in their joy. Help them find solace in the wistful memories that may reveal more wishes than reality offered up.

Believe in the Welsh ‘hiraeth’, the German ‘Sehnsucht’, the Scottish/Gaelic ‘cinales’ and English ‘yearning’. Make the table more festive. Bring more harmony to the music. Make gifts come from the heart. Make the dark days brighter. Give of yourself and you will become part of the soothing effect of hiraeth, a part of the deep, warm nuances of the soul that connect you with your loved ones, family, or friends, and memories that connect you to the past or help guide the future.

Think about how hiraeth may be incorporated into the values espoused by Villages—the sense of community, connection to our roots, daydreaming, and yearning—all so vitally important as we face older age and have a deep desire to stay ‘home’, connected to what we know and love.

Wishing you and yours a very happy and meaningful holiday season. The smile on your face, light in your eyes, and music in your heart will go a long way toward providing happiness and good memories, and the expanded concept of hiraeth.

~ Nancy Doty

* Get to Know Our Villages! *

Anyone who is interested in learning more about our Villages is invited to attend the informational events below.

Join Eastside Village virtually to discuss EV volunteering and membership on Saturday, December 9 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. We will outline what we have been up to historically. Registration is recommended.

Viva Village will host an Online Viva Village 101 on Saturday, December 9, from 10:00 am – 11:30 am. This is an informational session for prospective members, volunteers, or anyone interested in Viva Village. Register on the Website or contact the office for the Zoom link – by phone: 503-746-5082 or by email: vivavillageor@gmail.com.

From North Star Village member Anjala Ehelebe: You’re invited to our Village 101, an introduction to villages in general and North Star Village in particular. I lead a Village 101 on the third Thursday of each month. This month’s 101 will be held on Thursday, December 21 at 3:13 pm. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or member, or have friends who’d be interested, join me for a fast and informative overview of our village. We’ll meet at Good Neighbor Pizzeria, located at 800 NE Dekum St., 97211. It is fully accessible, with seats available in the well-ventilated interior or at comfortable tables outdoors. Call North Star Village at 503-793-8518 to ask questions and to let us know you’ll be there. See our website for more information: https://northstarvillage.clubexpress.com/.

RiverWest Village invites anyone interested in aging better and learning more about how to become involved either as a member or volunteer to have a one-on-one conversation with a RiverWest volunteer. Call their office (503-495-4934) and request an Introductory Chat, or email info@riverwestvillage.org. You will be connected with a volunteer from their Outreach Team. Include your name, phone number, and email address in your message and RWV will be in touch with you soon!

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★★ November 2023 Newsletter ★★

* Thoughts From a Noteworthy Event *

On October 2nd, we gathered for our second Listen, Lunch & Learn event: Viable, Sustainable, and Thriving Villages. The event was well attended with just over 40 participants who gave the day rave reviews. We offer many kudos to the organizers, Lee Lancaster, Grace Merchant, and David Taylor. Thanks to John Chapman and Beth Sale from Villages Clark County who arranged the superb venue at First Presbyterian Church in Vancouver.

The panelists were also the actors who provided entertainment and education with their skit about the many layers of Villages. Lee Lancaster (ESV), Suanne Jackson (WLLO) who graciously gave her time and photocopying skills, Carol Cookson (REV), Mary Shepherd (NSV), and Jin Darney (Board Chair + ESV) each represented strata from Village to Affinity Group, from Governing Councils, the COR and to the Board. We also learned about ad hoc work groups, and a disappearing task force that keeps reappearing as they play vital roles in the decision-making process that assures all relevant parties are engaged when policies and procedures are developed.

Based upon a review of the comments submitted after the Listen, Lunch & Learn event, it was declared a highly successful day. Many ideas were also promoted for next time (tentatively set for late February). As we ponder where we’re going we are well advised to remember where we’ve been. There have been some ups and downs, some growth and some setbacks, some times of gathering and times of COVID isolation. One Village has left the family, and another has emerged.

We turn our recognition to Lyn Trainer, our Managing Director, who has been our beacon of light as we have negotiated many milestones.

From a young age, Lyn has spent her career years—both professionally and in volunteer roles—in nonprofit service to others, raising funds, actively developing programs, and offering her growing knowledge and expertise to many outstanding organizations. Lyn has been involved with the volunteer services office at OHSU and Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Foundation. She was active in fundraising for the new hospital that opened in 1998. She was an active volunteer for the Kiwanis Doernbecher Children’s Cancer Program and Friends of Doernbecher. She has been on the Board of Directors for the Oregon Chapter of the Lewis & Clark Trail Heritage Foundation.

Some time ago, personal experience led Lyn to search for solutions to a perceived problem. She wanted to be more proactive in helping a family member whose health and mobility issues were affecting their independence. Lyn discovered Villages NW as a potential network to support older persons’ autonomy—VNW became another worthy cause.

We see that Lyn may have retired from her previous career, but she has never really retired her knowledge, experience, and associations that have been invaluable in her role as the Managing Director of Villages NW. When we speak of Viability, Sustainability, and Thriving Villages, we think of many, many volunteers and members who have invested in the concept of Villages. We appreciate the ‘can do’ attitude and effort of the many.

We think of Lyn Trainer for the countless hours she has given and continues to give. We thank her for her vision, organizational skills, and calm approach to our challenges. Lyn, our Guiding Star—sometimes through the wilderness, sometimes through the quagmire, in sunny days and dark ones, uphill and down, always there to light the way forward.

We honor the indispensable efforts of the volunteers who stand ready to serve the Mission of Villages NW in the 10 Villages throughout the Portland Metro area and in Manzanita.

Viable, Sustainable, and Thriving, indeed!

THANK YOU, ONE AND ALL!

~ Nancy Doty

* Aging with Grace: Embracing Our New Normals *

Aging With Grace Embracing Our New Normals
Southminster Presbyterian Church
12250 SW Denney Road, Beaverton
Saturday, November 11, 1:00 pm – 4:00pm
Hosted by Viva Village

Glenn Rodriguez, M.D., and Jenny Sasser, Ph.D., address the normal physical and emotional changes of aging, when to seek professional advice, and how to respond to our changing selves. Includes presentation, Q&A, and small group discussions.

As we age:

  • What are the normal physiological changes we might expect?
  • How does our engagement with the healthcare system change?
  • How can we best manage and benefit from our “new normals”?

This event is open to the public and other villagers. It is free to Viva Village members and volunteers! Fee to the public is $10/person or $15/couple.

Registration opens on October 2 at 6:00 pm. To RSVP, call Viva Village (503-746-5082) or send an emil to vivavillageor@gmail.com. Scan the QR code for more details and to register.

* Get to Know Our Villages! *

Anyone who is interested in learning more about our Villages is invited to attend the informational events below.

Join Eastside Village virtually to discuss EV volunteering and membership on Saturday, November 11 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. Registration is recommended.

Due to our Aging With Grace presentation, our informational session, Viva Village 101, will not meet in November. Please join us online on December 9 from 10 am – 11:30 am to learn more Viva Village membership and volunteering. Register on the website or contact the office for the Zoom link.

From North Star Village member Anjala Ehelebe: You’re invited to Village 101, an introduction to villages in general and North Star Village in particular. I lead a Village 101 on the third Thursday of each month at 3:15 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or member, or have friends who’d be interested, join me on Thursday, November 16 at 3:15 pm, for a quick and informative overview of our village. We’ll meet at Good Neighbor Pizzeria, 800 NE Dekum St., 97211. It is fully accessible, with seats available in the well-ventilated interior or at comfortable tables outdoors. Call North Star Village at 503-793-8518 to ask questions and to let us know you’ll be there. See our website for more information: https://northstarvillage.clubexpress.com/.

RiverWest Village invites anyone interested in aging better and learning more about how to become involved either as a member or volunteer to have a one-on-one conversation with a RiverWest volunteer. Just call their office (503-495-4934) and request an Introductory Chat, or email info@riverwestvillage.org. You will be connected with a volunteer from their Outreach Team. Include your name, phone number, and email address in your message and RWV will be in touch with you soon!

Join Villages Clark County for “Aging in Place” informational meeting on Saturday, November 18 from 10:30 am – 11:30 am at the Battle Ground Community Library, Meyer Memorial Trust Community Room, 1207 SE 8th Way, Battle Ground, WA. Come learn about Villages Clark County and how you can “Age in Place”.

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★★ October 2023 Newsletter ★★

* Autumn Housecleaning *

There, in the night,
You don’t see that
The sky has darkened.
Stars wink between clouds
And the harvest moon
Has lost its sharp edge.
You sense the closeness of the storm
And begin to smell the rain
On the breath of the storm’s sigh.
A few renegade raindrops
Run ahead of the rest,
Announcing the imminent stampede.
Soon the wind rises
From a distracted sigh
To the full inhale-exhale
Of a storm exercising,
Flexing stiff muscles.
Autumn housecleaning has begun.

~ Nancy Doty

* Aging with Grace: Embracing Our New Normals *

Aging With Grace Embracing Our New Normals
Southminster Presbyterian Church
12250 SW Denney Road, Beaverton
Saturday, November 11, 1:00 pm – 4:00pm
Hosted by Viva Village

Glenn Rodriguez, M.D., and Jenny Sasser, Ph.D., address the normal physical and emotional changes of aging, when to seek professional advice, and how to respond to our changing selves. Includes presentation, Q&A, and small group discussions.

As we age:

  • What are the normal physiological changes we might expect?
  • How does our engagement with the healthcare system change?
  • How can we best manage and benefit from our “new normals”?

This event is open to the public and other villagers. It is free to Viva Village members and volunteers! Fee to the public is $10/person or $15/couple.

Registration opens on October 2 at 6:00 pm. To RSVP, call Viva Village (503-746-5082) or send an emil to vivavillageor@gmail.com. Scan the QR code for more details and to register.

* Happy Valley Village Meeting *

Happy Valley Village Meeting
Ledding Library
10660 SE 21st Ave, Milwaukie
Tuesday, October 24, 6:00 pm
Hosted by Villages NW

There were 16 interested people from Happy Valley, Clackamas and Damascus at the September 26 meeting to explore the possibility of a Village in the Happy Valley area. The group plans to meet again on October 25. If you know people who would be interested in learning more and getting involved, please have them contact by email to info.happyvalley@villagesnw.org.

* Tabling Events *

Tabling events are an excellent community gathering place. It’s a good way to be supportive of the community while encouraging non-profit organizations to use the time and space to introduce and promote their programs and activities.

During October, Villages Clark County and RiverWest Village will have some tabling events. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of these events, be sure to check out that village’s event calendar for more information.

Neighbor Helping Neighbors Safety and Services Fair
Fairway Village Ballroom, 15509 SE Fernwood Drive, Vancouver WA 98683
October 6, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
for Villages Clark County

South West Aging at Home Resource Fair
Southwest Community Center, 6820 SW 45th Ave, Portland 97219
October 22, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
for RiverWest Village

* Get to Know Our Villages! *

Anyone who is interested in learning more about our Villages is invited to attend the informational events below.

Join Eastside Village virtually for an EV informational session on Saturday, October 14 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. Registration is recommended.

Viva Village will host an Online Viva Village 101 on Saturday, October 14, from 10:00 am – 11:30 am. This is an informational session for prospective members, volunteers, or anyone interested in Viva Village. Register on the Website or contact the office for the Zoom link – by phone: 503-746-5082 or by email: vivavillageor@gmail.com.

From North Star Village member Anjala Ehelebe: You’re invited to Village 101, an introduction to villages in general and North Star Village in particular. I lead a Village 101 on the third Thursday of each month at 3:15 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or member, or have friends who’d be interested, join me on Thursday, October 19 at 3:15 pm, for a quick and informative overview of our village. We’ll meet at Good Neighbor Pizzeria, 800 NE Dekum St., 97211. It is fully accessible, with seats available in the well-ventilated interior or at comfortable tables outdoors. Call North Star Village at 503-793-8518 to ask questions and to let us know you’ll be there. See our website for more information: https://northstarvillage.clubexpress.com/.

RiverWest Village invites anyone interested in aging better and learning more about how to become involved either as a member or volunteer to have a one-on-one conversation with a RiverWest volunteer. Just call their office (503-495-4934) and request an Introductory Chat, or email info@riverwestvillage.org. You will be connected with a volunteer from their Outreach Team. Include your name, phone number, and email address in your message and RWV will be in touch with you soon!

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