This article asks you to look around at your co-workers and think about who you collaborate with most. Are they younger, older, more experienced? Is asking a multi-generational group to work together a recipe for conflict or segregation? A pilot program run by the Sloan Center on Aging and Work at Boston College shows that age-diverse work groups not only don't hinder collaboration but are, in fact, really good for business and for the workers' investment in their projects. Read more about how organizations can thrive and have a creative edge by taking advantage of an age diverse workforce. And then share this article around the water cooler!

This first person account in the New York Times, written by a daughter caring for her 92-year-old mother with Alzheimer's, will resonate with so many 50+ers whose parents need full-time care... and who deal with the challenges of this daunting task. The author feels that this experience has given her a clearer understanding, and sympathy, for what dementia really means ... no future, no past... only the endless now. In the midst of the sadness and loss, the daughter still appreciates the essence of her mother and makes sure that she always has an agenda. Click here for the full story.

Lillian Lowe, 103, has been inundated with Facebook friends since it was reported that she is the oldest user of the social network site. The announcement was followed by 999 friendship requests from around the world. Ms. Lowe is unfazed. Upon receiving these messages, this retired British hotelier and businesswoman (holding her iPad in this photo) commented, "They have been very kind and uplifting messages. (But), I can't reply to them all."  For those who haven't joined the Facebook crowd, let Coming of Age be your first experience! 

Marking the first stop on his national book tour promoting Known and Unknown, former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld joins the National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, for a conversation with historian Michael Beschloss. In a wide-ranging dialogue, Rumsfeld will discuss previously undisclosed details and insights about the Bush administration, 9/11, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq on February 9th at 6:30 p.m. The discussion will draw on the themes from his long career in public service. Tickets $15. To register, click here.

The public is invited to experience colorful, vibrant music, dance, and storytelling at the 22nd Annual Celebration of African Cultures. Families can enjoy an afternoon of electrifying African and African American performances, workshops, children’s arts and crafts, cuisine, shopping and more! Held on January 22nd from 1 to 4 p.m. at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, 3260 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA. Event free with museum admission.

While no one would choose to be ill, sickness has proved to be an unexpected boon to many artists -- and to our cultural heritage. Some artists (Andy Warhol) found their true calling while coping with lengthy illnesses as children. Others were forced to change their medium of expression or artistic style when faced with serious illness or disability as adults. Do the lives of these and other artists offer important lessons that could benefit the rest of us? On Wednesday, January 26 at 11:00 a.m., Judith Zausner, local columnist and board member of the Creative Arts and and Aging Network (CAAN) will explore this compelling question at the Free Library, 1901 Vine Street, in Room 108. Snacks provided.

Women & Influence is a FREE conference, organized by Women's Way, that provides a forum to discuss issues of importance to women, girls, and their families in this region. This year's conference, Community Voices: Taking Action for Women and Girls, to be held on Saturday, February 5th at 9 a.m.- 3 p.m., at Moore College of Art, will provide the tools, skills, and resources for individuals and nonprofits to participate in and lead grassroots advocacy efforts in their communities. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Conference attendees must register by February 3rd for one morning and one afternoon workshop. Click here to register.
 

Creating an effective media list of traditional and online outlets can be most helpful in promoting your programs and keeping your name in front of potential donors. This article provides the basics of what you need to know to take advantage of media coverage and includes tips like sending news items to specific reporters, continually updating your media list, and choosing "target outlets" where you would like to get more news coverage. For more ideas, click here. 

Transformations, a Holistic Learning Center in Voorhees, New Jersey, needs a full-time temporary office administrator. This person, who should have a serious interest and passion for holistic learning, will be responsible for coordinating all of the day-to-day activities of the organization. This includes answering phones, organizing and setting up events, working with presenters and instructors, assisting with the database and website, and marketing. Must be able to work flexible hours (evenings and week-ends) and have computer skills. Interested candidates should send resume or bio to Scottrosen@rosengroup.com

Yes...the Girl Scouts sell cookies and go camping. But did you know that this organization delivers age-appropriate leadership programs to girls in the Philadelphia area? Volunteers are needed by the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania to make this happen. Free training, ongoing support, and a first-rate life-skills building program available. There are programs throughout the region, with flexible time commitments. To learn more this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of girls in your neighborhood, contact Dale Moelter at (215) 564-4657.

The Philadelphia Orchestra Association, managers of the "Fabulous Philadelphians," has a job opening for a Manager, Volunteer Programs and Events. This person will be responsible for the advancement and coordination of all volunteer programs and services, and will provide support for fundraising events and joint committee projects. To accomplish this, the Manager works closely with the President, Volunteer Committees and the Director, Development Events & Volunteer Programs. Knowledge of classical music is a plus.

Warrior Writers is seeking a part-time Administrative Coordinator to help support its daily operations. This grass-roots national organization based in Philadelphia is dedicated to providing a creative community for artistic expression to aid in healing and raise awareness about veterans’ issues. An experienced, responsible, motivated self-starter interested both in working independently and as part of a team to support veterans is being sought. Position begins March 1, 2011.

As part of the health care reform law, starting January 1, 2011, all seniors with Original Medicare now have access to many important preventive health services. Medicare beneficiaries will no longer have to pay any out-of-pocket costs for most preventive services, including annual wellness visits which are being added to the program. Here's a breakdown of the different preventive services that Medicare is now offering that will be free of charge. Click here.