The October 23rd “Party with a Purpose” drew nearly 300 participants for an active and engaging afternoon to celebrate the 10 year Anniversary of the Long Term Care Coordinating Council and showcase the work of their Aging and Disability Friendly Workgroup. This Workgroup launched a process two years ago when the Mayor signed a letter requesting membership in the World Health Organization’s Aging Friendly Cities movement. San Francisco is the first large city in California to request this status and the first to stress both Aging AND Disability Friendly.
The afternoon event started with an inspiring performance of the Dance Generators, an intergenerational dance group with University of San Francisco. This was followed by a short slide show about the focus on Aging and Disability domains that are part of this process – Outdoor Spaces and Buildings, Transportation, Housing, Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment, Community and Health Services, Communication and Information and a new domain, Technology. The focus is on an asset-based approach to the planning that uses strengths to overcome barriers.
Keynote speaker was John Feather, PhD and CEO of Grantmakers in Aging helped us understand how to identify and reframe issues in aging. Then participants had a chance to contribute their thoughts and opinions to the planning. A summary of the discussion will seen be posted on the www.friendlysf.org website.
Long Term Care Coordinating Council Co-chairs Tracy Dobronravova and Cindy Kaufman who highlighted the many successes of the Council over the past 10 years. They also presented the first Aging Friendly Award to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Authority, while acknowledging the hard work of the advocates as well that led to the creation of the Free MUNI.
Mary Twomey added a lively touch as the MC, with a special rap and bit of fun with the audience. The day conclude with a reception, bringing the Party with a Purpose to a close.
