Honoring Glenda

Many of us have had wonderful grandparents influence our lives as I did.  I cared for my grandmother, Glenda, in my home for seven years before she passed away in 2012.  Glenda was lucky.  She had a loving family who cared for her at home.  But even so, I watched as little by little she became more socially isolated.  Friends and family had passed on, her pastor retired and stopped coming by, and after a bad fall, getting out became difficult.  In our changing social structure, loneliness among elders has become more prevalent.  Loosing connections to family, friends, and community leads to greater risk for depression, falls, and critical illnesses.

The year following Glenda's passing I was missing her dearly, especially during the holidays.  While searching for a way to honor her life, I discovered Gifts for Seniors and the amazing work they do for elders.  Gifts for Seniors is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit created with the realization that across the Twin Cities thousands of seniors are living emotionally disadvantaged lives. For them, a spouse has died, children have moved away, or failing health and diminished income have left them unable to reach out.

I am thrilled about my new role as Executive Director and feel blessed to have been given this opportunity to serve socially isolated seniors.  Gifts for Seniors' committed volunteers, board, and staff are busily preparing to provide the personal life-affirming visits our elders are longing for this holiday season.  We need your support to reach more seniors.  Please consider donating $10 or more now.  It may seem like a small amount, but collectively we can make a meaningful impact.  

Join me in bringing a bit of warmth and joy to the seniors in our community!

All my best,

Carolyn