June 27 - July 3
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.
The summer officially starts today for Inspiring Opportunities. While we won't be publishing weekly issues for a few weeks, please keep an eye out for "special blast editions" throughout July and August ... and interesting, new information on the website.
Connect, contribute... enjoy!
Inside:
What's New
Info4Orgs
Have We Got an Opportunity for You!
Make-A-Difference Calendar
This Week's Medicare Tip
Past Issues
What's New
“When you’re doing something you really love, it’s not really a job." This is the sentiment of a struggling real estate agent turned nature guide, who has turned her passion for the outdoors into a part-time business. Some boomers are taking the plunge by choice; others have been laid off or have to bolster sliding retirement funds. No matter how the change occurs, there are positive stories in re-invention.
Millions of American families are dealing with the difficult task of helping a parent or other elderly relative from afar. This experience can empty bank accounts, strain family relations and put the elderly person's health at risk. Balancing family and job responsibilities can be exhausting and stressful. This article offers steps to help you face this challenge.
In this New York Times article, ninety-year-old Rabbi Joshua O. Haberman reflects on his life and the advantages of aging. His list of the "compensations" he feels at this point in life include a sense of tranquility, gratitude, and greater involvement with family. His positive approach to life... and death...are a counterpoint to sterotypical views of aging ... and an inspiration to us all.
Info4Orgs
Bank of America is offering grants through its Neighborhood Excellence Initiative to organizations throughout the country who are addressing the most pressing needs in their communities. Applications are being accepted for Neighborhood Builders: $200,000 in grant funding and leadership training for two years to local nonprofit organizations working to promote vibrant neighborhoods. Local Heroes: recognition of five community heroes ($5,000 award) who have contributed significantly to neighborhood vitality. Click here to apply. The deadline is June 30, 2009.
The Twenty-First Century Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations that primarily serve African Americans and/or whose board or staff reflects majority involvement by African Americans. Eligible organizations must be involved in community organizing, advocacy, and/or leadership development. The upcoming application deadline is September 4, 2009.
Have We Got an Opportunity for You!
Federation Early Learning Services is seeking a Senior Staff Accountant with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or related field, 3-5 years work experience in not-for-profit accounting and proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft programs. To apply, email a cover letter and resume to Pamela Thomas.
AARP, a Coming of Age founding partner, has two volunteer leadership positions available: the County Coordinator will be the primary AARP contact and leader in the designated county and manage team members and activities; the Regional Leader communicates with state office and local team members and recruits and mentors County Coordinators and team members. To learn more about these openings, e-mail Maureen McKoy or call 1 (866) 389-5654.
Drexel University's Program for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Health, a newly developed program for LGBT health research, education and policy at the School of Public Health, is looking to hire a full-time grant writer/program manager. The primary responsibilities include writing grant proposals and coordinating the program’s day-to-day activities. For more information, email.
In last week's mention of this opportunity, the wrong contact information was given. Please note the correction.
Intercommunity Action, Inc. (Interac) is seeking a knowledgeable French speaker with the ability to teach conversational French weekly to older adult learners in a Roxborough-based senior center. This person should be engaging, flexible, and able to relate to older adults from a variety of backgrounds. To volunteer, contact Betsy Lightbourn at (215) 487-1750, ext. 3043.
Make-a-Difference Calendar
Saturday, June 27
9:00 am at local sites (online)
First Lady Michelle Obama is asking all citizens to take part in America's National Health Care Day of Service this weekend. You can join up with other local volunteers to make a difference in improving health care services in your community. Check out this site for locations near you.
10:00 am at African American United Fund, 2231 North Broad St., Philadelphia
The African American United Fund has planned a series of activities for the spring and summer focused on community engagement, neighborhood improvement and civic education. The first offering is an African Marketplace, Health and Wellness Town Hall, and HIV/AIDS prevention fair that will take place from 10 am to 5 pm at the Fund's facility. For more information, call (215) 236-7508.
Sunday, June 28
10:00 am at Cresheim Valley Drive and Navajo Street, Philadelphia
Wissahickon Restoration Volunteers needs a few good volunteers to assist them with removing invasive plants, rescuing trees from vines, and performing trail maintenance. It's a great way to be outside appreciating nature and using your muscles for a good cause! All tools, gloves, etc. are provided. Project Leader: Ron Ayres, (215) 483-4348.
Tuesday, June 30
7:30 pm at The Free Library, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia
Andrew Bacevich is perhaps the only writer to regularly contribute to both the Nation and Pat Buchanan’s The American Conservative. A history professor and retired United States Army colonel, Bacevich examines the United States’ daunting problem of overexpansion and overconsumption in his latest book, The Limits of Power, and argues for a return to pragmatism. FREE. No tickets required.
Wednesday, July 1
6:00 pm at Valley Forge Historical Park, 1400 North Outer Line Dr., King of Prussia, PA
Recharge midweek with a fast-paced walk sponsored by PhilaVentures, an outdoor club of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community (LGBT) in the Philadelphia area. Participation is open to everyone regardless of sexual orientation or place of residence. Departure from the lower parking lot near the restrooms at the Visitor’s Center at 6:15 pm. The course is 5.5 miles. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes. FREE.
Thursday, July 2
4:00 pm at Independence Visitor's Center, 6th and Market Streets, Philadelphia
July 4th takes a new twist as Philadelphia celebrates Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday , Lincoln200™: The Bicentennial Festival, at the very spot where America was born. The Festival theme, "Lincoln Then and Now," shines the spotlight on period and contemporary takes on artistic, cultural and culinary works, innovations in technology and healthcare, and the lasting legacy of Lincoln to today’s world.
This Week's Medicare Tip
Medicare covers many of your health care needs. Today’s Medicare is working with private companies approved by Medicare that provide different ways to get your health care and prescription drug coverage in the Medicare Program. The Medicare plan that you choose affects many things like cost, benefits, doctor choice, convenience, and quality. Continue Reading
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Coming of Age Radio Portraits, produced by WHYY, feature age 50+ Philadelphia-area people who have made exciting life transitions. Click here to see and hear their wonderful stories and to submit your story!
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Read the latest post on the blog by Coming of Age Director Dick Goldberg 
