Inspiring Opportunities is an e-mail from Coming of Age for people 50+ who are making a difference in the world, in their communities and in their lives.



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It may be time to "retire" the word retirement -- the old word doesn't capture the new reality -- a change in careers, a start-up business, civic engagement activities, the Peace Corps. This New York Times article offers questions and answers about the possibilities for next steps. As a researcher pointed out, anything can happen when healthy, active people with no-child rearing responsibilities hit the streets!


Senior Adults for Greater Education, S.A.G.E., a Coming of Age partner, has provided a vehicle for 50+ers to devote their time and talents and meet new people, while helping children be successful at school. S.A.G.E. has more than 150 people 50+ working in three school districts in Bucks County. Recognized with a national award by the Points of Light Foundation, S.A.G.E. offers many options to connect with students and help them see the light. Contact:(215) 357-2332 or e-mail.


For Boomers who marched on Washington in the '60s, being considered non-threatening by the government may not sound like a compliment. But,the government has decided that 50 plusers don't make good terrorists, and have given our age group extra time to comply with new post-Sept. 11 driver's license rules that will go into effect in 2014. Terrorists, illegal immigrants, and con artists are the targets of this new law.




  If you know of a volunteer opportunity in the Greater Philadelphia area that you would like featured here, e-mail details to havewegot@comingofage.org. You can find more opportunities at:




Come sample the music, the food and the diversity that embodies the "spirit" of Louisiana while helping to solve the area's poverty-related problems. The Town of Vivian located 30 miles northwest of Shreveport, Louisiana, has a vision to create a Health Care and Educational Alliance. Too many of their children are not receiving needed medical care and are not reaching their potential in school. Offering medical services at a school setting is a logical and efficient way to meet these needs. As a VISTA, your help and expertise in healthcare, education, and in creating and sustaining public/private collaboration will all contribute in bringing this vision to life! Read More.


The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Public Information Center is looking for folks with an interest in the environment to help staff the Center -- answer phones and give out information to the public -- for a flexible 2-3 hour shift (And we know how much people 50+ treasure felxibility!) Some training required. Greatest need is on Fridays. The Center is at 1650 Arch Street, Philadelphia. Contact: Betty Ringkamp, (215)-814-5663 or by e-mail.


The National Museum of American Jewish History, located in Philadelphia's historic district, has a wonderful gift shop that is looking for sales assistants. The shop has ceremonial Judaica, books, and jewelry. The shop operates every day but Saturday (the Jewish sabbath). Parking available; flexible schedule. Perks include free access to programs and events in Philadelphia. And no, you don't have to be Jewish! Contact: Eva Schlanger, (215) 923-0262.


Mary Rose Nuse (in photo), a 90-year-old volunteer with Keystone Hospice lived in the hospice building in 1939 (an apartment house, then) and returned sixty years later to spend time with terminally ill residents. She recently "retired" and the hospice is seeking others like her with a desire to connect and give back. Its next 2-session, patient care volunteer training is on February 22nd & 29th, 9:00 am– 5:00 pm in Wyndmoor. Lunch included; pre-registration required. Contact: Lori Curtis (also in photo) at (215) 836-2440.


Are you a computer whiz, take great photos, like to dance or sing, or want to explore sharing your professional skills or expertise (Talk about an opportunity with something for everyone!) with a great organization? Easter Seals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore is asking you to share your talents with those who have disabilities or special needs. Explore volunteer opportunities (on a one-time or on-going basis) and make a real difference. Call Holly Titus at (302) 324-4444 or e-mail.




We list events and opportunities here we think will interest people 50+ who want to make a difference. If you know of such events, please send us information. If you attended an event you learned about here, please send us a review.

And don't forget to check out our website Community Calendar too!


10:00 am at Masonic Temple, 1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia
The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia has been called one of the great "wonders" of the Masonic world and is one of the most extraordinary buildings in Philadelphia (We've been there and think that may be a bit of an understatement). It is an important part of the historic fabric of the city. Guided tours explore the architecture, art, history, corridors, and library of this national historic landmark, from its Norman cathedral-like exterior to the Alhambra influenced Oriental Hall. A great way to get to know about an important, distinctive part of Philadelphia! Admission: $8; 65+, $5. For information, call (215) 988-1917.


2:00 pm at University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, 3260 South Street,
Today's world is clearly in a state of constant change... climate, natural disasters, environmental risks. But, we're not the first to experience these upheavals. A panel of anthropology professors will explore how ancient societies dealt with these issues... and what we can learn from them. Free with Museum admission. Contact: (215) 898-4890. The bristlecone pine (in photo) reflects climate changes over millennia.


2:00 pm at Silver Lake Nature Center, 1306 Bath Road, Bristol, PA
Get back to nature (or at least a little fresh air!) on a guided tour of the center, a 253-acre "natural treasure" in the heart of the southern portion of Bucks County. It's an experience to be savored... and a place to explore... with flora and fauna that will delight visitors of all ages. We think it will give you one more reason to become part of the movement to save our planet (or at least that portion where we live!) FREE. For information, call (215) 785-1177.


10:00 am at Wellness Place, Center In The Park, 5818 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia
Plan to attend this free, two-part healthy heart program at the Center in the Park, a nonprofit community center in Northwest Philadelphia focused on the needs of mature people. Participants will learn how to deal with emergencies, identify risk factors for cardiovascular disorders, incorporate healthy nutrition into daily living and shop "healthy" on a budget. Remember: Heart disease is the number one killer of women in our country. FREE.


6:30 pm at The Suzanne Morgan Center at Ridgeland, Chamounix Drive, West Fairmount Park, Philadelphia
Exercise is a vital part of recovery after breast cancer treatment. This program, presented by physical therapist, Maureen Fleagle, will provide information about getting started with such exercise plan. Call (215) 879-7733 to RSVP.


12:00 pm at Chemical Heritage Foundation, 315 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia
Learn about James Smithson, the English chemist who gave the United States an extraordinary gift -- a half-million-dollars to establish a foundation in Washington "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men." Smithson's largesse led to the building of the Smithsonian Institution, the largest museum and research complex in the world. (And we're pleased his "diffusion of knowledge among men" direction was taken more broadly to include all of us!). Hear author Heather Ewing discuss her biography of this enigmatic man. FREE. For information on the ongoing Brown Bag Lecture series, call (215) 873-8271.


6:30 pm at National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia
A great chance to hear Valerie Plame Wilson's much-publicized story as she discusses her newly-published autobiography, Fair Game: My Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by the White House. She will present her perspective on the public disclosure of her identity as a CIA officer and the federal investigation that led to Scooter Libby's conviction. Trudy Rubin of the Philadelphia Inquirer moderates. Admission: $12 members; $15 non-members. Reservations required. Call (215) 409-6700.


6:15 pm at Union League of Philadelphia (Sansom St. entrance), 140 S. Broad St., Philadelphia
Tired of the 24/7 CNN and other media coverage of the "permanent campign?" Eager for something meatier and more incisive? Join Terry Madonna, director of the Franklin and Marshall College Keystone Poll and Larry Eichel, senior writer and political analyst at The Inquirer, for an insider discussion of the 2008 presidential race the day after "Super Tuesday's" primaries. These seasoned political veterans will reflect on the presidential landscape. Business attire required. For tickets (reception and/or program) e-mail the World Affairs Council.


2:00 pm at William Way Community Center, 1315 Spruce St., Philadelphia
If you have been moving less and struggling with more aches and pains, this could be the class for you. Given on four consecutive Thursdays at William Way Community Center for gays, lesbians, bi-sexuals, and the transgendered, the class will introduce you to yoga postures that help strengthen muscles, increase range of motion, and improve alignment and balance. Straight but having some trouble straightening out? You're welcome too! $40 for members; $75 for non-members. For information, e-mail.


4:00 pm at Temple University, Paley Lecture Hall, 1210 W. Berks Street, Philadelphia
Join author Lorene Cary for a discussion of her novel, The Price of a Child, a fact-based tale of how an enslaved woman, aided by Underground Railroad activists, seized her freedom. The book was the city's choice in 2003 for One Book, One Philadelphia. Cary will be joined by a panel of scholars. Live jazz music, historical re-enactors and refreshments round out the presentation. Wow! Learn about an important peice of our history and have a great time! FREE.





For You and Those You Care For


Thinking about quitting smoking? Medicare can help you put those thoughts into action, if you meet certain conditions. If you quit, you can improve your overall health and feel more energized and stronger, even if you have smoked for years. If you have Medicare and smoke or use tobacco products, talk to you doctor about whether you qualify for help quitting through Medicare’s smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling. Read More.

The next Coming of Age Boomervision! session is February 13 at WHYY @ 5:30: "Creating a New Life Together: A Makeover for the Midlife Couple." Click this image for more info or here to register.



SPONSOR:




VISTA is looking for experienced, energetic individuals who want to make a full-time, year-long commitment to fight poverty. If you’re retiring soon, already there or want to take a year off for a year of service, VISTA may be for you. Living allowances and other benefits are provided. More About VISTA

See this week's featured VISTA opportunity under "Have We Got an Opportunity For You."