Community Living Campaign

Cultivating connections to help seniors and people with disabilities age and thrive at home.

Cultivating connections to help seniors and people with disabilities age and thrive at home.

financial security

Finding Fulfilling Work with Community Organizations

by

Seniors continue to find ways to work safely, even a year into the pandemic. SF ReServe is here to help them continue to find fulfilling work and give back in a professional capacity.

The goal of SF ReServe is to create win-win-win opportunities:

Kathy Barr

  • Provide older adults and people with disabilities who want to work opportunities to work for great causes
  • Help local nonprofits and other community-based organizations find affordable and skilled help
  • Help our communities grow and thrive by matching these experienced individuals with nonprofit organizations.

Kathy Barr was one of many success stories who found work through the program.

“I was able to use my past work experience while I learned a lot, met some great folks, made some new friends and had fun,” she said. “And I felt useful and respected.”

“My experience working with the League of Women Voters of San Francisco has been outstanding. I became part of a community focused on local, state and national election issues — democracy, education, advocacy and voting rights.”

SF ReServe engages the skills of senior and disabled people, “finding us a meaningful way to participate in the City’s nonprofit workforce and be a part of the City’s social fabric,” Barr said.

If you’re looking for work and want to find out more about whether SF ReServe can help match you to a position, apply to be a ReServist.

‘One of the best jobs I’ve ever had’

Rebecca Shotwell

Despite the pandemic, most of our dedicated ReServists continue working, often from home.

One of those is Rebecca Shotwell, who we connected with Sequoia Living. One of her jobs was greeting all the folks who came to the Aquatic Park Senior Center. She eventually transitioned to being part of their regular staff. That changed a year ago.

Now, one of her main jobs is making wellness calls to participants. That transition to working from home was a challenge, Shotwell said.

“The learning curve has been really steep and I’ve done it, developing all kinds of new skills along the way,” she said.

“This job continues to be one of the best jobs I’ve ever had. It’s not just a paycheck, but an opportunity to serve my community and to keep that community connected during the pandemic.”

“The staff at Sequoia Living are smart, funny, compassionate and dedicated to their profession, Shotwell continued. “I will forever be grateful to you for helping me work with such an astounding group of people.”

Interested or have questions?

If you are 60 years of age or older, or an adult of any age living with a disability and looking for work, please fill out our Job Inquiry Form.

If you’re a nonprofit or community-focused small business in need of a passionate, experienced person on your team, fill out the Partner Inquiry Form.

For any other questions, contact Jamie Goddard at sfreserve@sfcommunityliving.org  or call 415-821-1003, ext. 110.

Living Trusts: How to Establish Control Over Your Assets in the Event of Your Death (Virtual)

by

Join Al McLeod of Legal Document Services to learn why it’s important to plan ahead and make sure your family and assets are protected in the event of your death. All will share why you should consider setting up a revocable living trust, the difference between a will and a living trust, and what happens to your assets if you don’t have a will or a living trust.

 

To join by phone, dial 888-475-4499 (toll free) or 669-900-6833 (local).
Enter Meeting ID: 865 6747 4200, then press # twice.

To join with video, click this link: https://zoom.us/j/86567474200 to register and join. Wait in the “waiting room” until the activity is ready to start.

To create a friendly environment and minimize interruptions, we will close the activity to new participants 15 minutes after the start time.

The above link will work on your tablet or your computer. You’ll be prompted to download a Zoom app the first time you use Zoom. If you’re using a PC or Mac, you can join from your web browser without using the Zoom software.

Staying Ready to Work! (Virtual)

by

Join SF ReServe Director, Jamie Goddard, to learn what you can do now to prepare for and be ready to work during and after shelter-in-place. Find out about resources to support your job search.

To call in, dial 669-900-6833
You’ll be prompted to enter Meeting ID: 947 3509 0322, then press # and wait for the activity to start.

Click to join with video, click this link: https://zoom.us/j/94735090322 and wait in the “waiting room” until the activity is ready to start. To create a friendly environment and minimize interruptions, we will close the activity to new participants 15 minutes after the start time.

The above link will work on your tablet or on your computer. You’ll be prompted to download a Zoom app the first time you use Zoom. If you’re using a PC or Mac, you can join from your web browser without using the Zoom software.

Speaking Out to Our Supervisors for Better Employment Opportunities

by

Urgency came through in the voices of those who spoke at the May 9  Board of Supervisors hearing on employment.  Seniors and adults with disabilities both spoke of the economic need in this increasingly expensive City.  But more than that, they shared how they were seeking respect,  purpose, and the ability to contribute their lifetime of experience to improve their communities.

Rebecca Shotwell, pictured left, shared that finding a job “saved her life.”  A graphic artist in the days before Photoshop, Rebecca retired two years before the 2008 financial crisis. Two years ago, after she and her husband had almost depleted their savings, Rebecca started looking for a job, “but who was going to hire an old lady?” Through CLC’s SF ReServe program. Rebecca began working at Aquatic Park Senior Center. They were so thrilled with her skills and contribution, that when a position opened up, they hired her directly.

Increasing Focus on Senior and Disability Employment Challenges

Supervisor Norman Yee, who called for the hearing following CLC’s recent Work Matters! event, recruited Supervisor Sheehy, Rohan, Fewer and Kim as co-sponsors.  

A presentation by SF City Departments introduced the set the stage for the testimony that followed, with data, program overviews and recommendations – linked here.

The hearing was broadcast on SFGov TV – if you missed, you can view the Employment Hearing there (the Employment Opportunities for Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities section starts at 1:23).  Thanks to everyone who came and who spoke.  We are hopeful that this will lead to more scrutiny and more funding to address this pressing issue.  

Stay tuned!!

UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a80
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a83
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a84
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a87
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a89
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a90
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a91
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a95
UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_10a98

[Show slideshow]

 

 

 

 

 

Our ‘Work Matters!’ Event Helps Connect Seniors and People with Disabilities to Jobs

by

Over 100 people gathered at the Unitarian Conference Center on March 22 to increase the pathways to meaningful employment for seniors and people with disabilities of all ages. 

This second Work Matters! gathering comes as CLC’s SF Reserve marks its first year of successfully placing people in part-time and project-based work at non-profit organizations in San Francisco.  

Working Together was the Order of the Day 

The event included those looking for work as well as those engaged with SF ReServe, plus a large number of seniors employed by the Felton Institute’s Senior Community Services Employment Program. Shireen McSpadden, Executive Director of the Department of Aging and Adult Services, kicked off the day with a commitment of her support for efforts to put more seniors and adults with disabilities to work, followed by Jarlene Choy, Aide to Supervisor Norman Yee, who announced he will hold a Board of Supervisor’s hearing on the issue very soon.  

San Francisco Senior Center Director and Reservist talked about how ReServe has made a difference in both of their lives.  ReServist Judy Goddess shared her journey, which include 14 hours of retirement followed by 5 years of caregiving, and now the exciting opportunity to launch the Senior Beat Reporters though SF ReServe. 

Telling Our Stories 

Diane Krantz led a spirited conversation at tables at those present shared their experiences and ideas for the future, with report-outs to all present.  After a delicious lunch prepared by CLC staff and the employment program Bakeworks, a panel offered diverse and energizing perspectives on the journey to meaningful work and engagement. Panelists included Jonathan Lyens, President of the FDR Democratic Club, Cathy Spensley from the Felton Institute, Michael Pappas, Executive Director of the Interfaith Council, and Hope Levy, Geronologist and trainer.  

Resources for Everyone 

The event also included organizations info resources. The occasion provided the opportunity to put together a couple of documents we can share on-line – an overview of the issue called Help Us Improve the Employment Picture  and a detailed list Resources..   

For more information about SF ReServe and other efforts to improve employment options for seniors and adults with Disabilties, contact Alicia Crawford at alicia@sfcommununityliving.org.


[Show slideshow]
1 2

Loneliness Really Is a Public Health Issue

by

Google Community Space and the Global Shapers hosted a thoughtful discussion on loneliness and increasing awareness of how bad it is for your health.   The panelist included:

Kasley Killam, event organizer (and CLC Board member) facilitated a  solution-focused discussion about loneliness among seniors, raising awareness about this issue and  highlighting  efforts of each organization to address it.  The session closed with suggestions for how the more than 70 people who attended might take steps to contribute. The panel discussion is featured on the CLC Facebook page.  You can learn more about the issue in Kasley’s article in Scientific American.  

Loneliness: A Public Health Crisis Livestream

Posted by Global Shapers – San Francisco Hub on Wednesday, March 21, 2018

 


[Show slideshow]

 

Dignity Day Helps Build Momentum for Prop I

by

dignityday13

I for Independence and Interdependence! Vote Yes to invest in seniors and people with disabilities.

September 23 was Dignity Day and the community of supporters and elected leaders gathered to show their support for Proposition I – The Dignity Fund.  Mayor Lee and members of the Board of Supervisors spoke of the importance of supporting seniors and adult with disabilities.  Community leaders shared their stories about how Prop I will make a difference.  And around the city, Meals on Wheels staff and volunteers distributed information about this November 8 ballot measure to meal sites.  Hundreds of seniors, adults with disabilities and their supporters showed their enthusiastic support by pledging to help get the word out with house signs, phone banking and outreach engagements.  You can learn more about how you can help here.  Enjoy the pictures and remember to vote Yes on Prop I!

Invalid Displayed Gallery

Building Connections for Healthy Aging – Step by Step

by

We celebrated the third anniversary of our Connections for Healthy Aging Workshops with a reunion, bringing together an enthusiastic and diverse group of participants from past workshops all over San Francisco. These workshops, created and led by Marcia Peterzell and Linda Silver, are a wonderful way to explore issues around aging, including identifying and strengthening networks of support, and advocating for oneself and others.

During the reunion, we caught up on what’s been happening and talked together in small kitchen table conversations. Everyone shared resources and ideas we thought would be helpful to one another to keep us all prepared for whatever lies ahead, including completing a Vial of Life (emergency medical form) and the other items on our Empowered Elder To Do List.

Marcia and Linda also shared the new one and two hour workshop options to share valuable information on Healthy Aging with those who might not want to sign up for a four-week full workshop. These shorter session topics include:

  • The Lifesaving “Vial of Life”
  • Protecting Our Rights in a Hospital Stay
  • Strategies to Finish Your Advance Directive
  • Building Your Personal Support Safety Network
  • Coping with Grief and Loss
  • Finding Ways to Have More Fun

With renewed funding from the May and Stanley Smith Trust, we are ready to accept invitations to bring this conversation with resources and humor to your neighborhood, faith community or retiree group.  More details on their flyer here or contact Marcia Peterzell at 415-359-1816 or marcia.peterzell@comcast.net.

Invalid Displayed Gallery

 

Jobs for San Francisco Seniors – We Need a Hand, Not a Handout

by

It turns out Freud was right: “work and love” are essential for human happiness. Older adults do not age out of those most human of needs, or the need for cash. While San Francisco cannot requisition a love potion, we can do quite a lot for the work side of the equation.
Most seniors, today over 65,000, by 2040 about 1/3 of the City, do not have enough income to meet basic needs. The highest percentages of individuals living below the poverty level in San Francisco are older adults.

But wait! Frail elders and some seniors do require support, but many older San Franciscans can and want to work. They just can’t find jobs.
Persistent ageism within key local industries – tech, hospitality, construction – is one of the daunting barriers. Other barriers: limited programs to increase senior employment, and no coordination, visibility and evaluation for minimal work-generating initiatives that do exist. Some programs are in place – the Senior Community Service Employment Program, Foster Grandparents, and Senior Companion Program. However, these reach only a fraction of senior seekers. Training, like the dedicated efforts of Jewish Vocation Services, exists but begs the larger issue of jobs open to seniors.

SF’s recent workforce development initiatives won’t help seniors put food on the table, keep lights on or provide a modicum of comfort. The Mayor’s 17-Point Jobs Plan, the Office of Economic/Work Development’s sector-based Access Point Strategy, and SF’s Draft Consolidated Plan don’t address unique barriers to seniors’ economic security. In the void, ageism reinforces stereotypes of older adults.

Other cities are taking bold steps to address these perils, spawning new programs responding to older adults’ eagerness for part-time, social-purpose work. NYC helped launch ReServe, offering seniors part-time, project-based social sector work. “ReServists” receive stipends for a variety of assignments – helping their peers manage chronic disease, serving as “success mentors” to motivate at-risk middle school students or moderating phone chats for housebound adults. These workers are willing to accept small (but potentially life sustaining) paychecks in exchange for assignments involving passion and purpose.

Programs like ReServe, which now operates in seven localities, often rely on city sponsorship and support to get off the ground, but they build in fee income to ensure they can be self-sustaining over time. Not only do these programs provide vital income to seniors, they also generate profound collateral benefits because older workers enrich an intergenerational workforce, boost organizational capacity and help solve social problems.

This City must do more to raise awareness of older adults’ capacity for work and to promote older adult job creation. Our elected leaders need to approve a Final Consolidated Plan that includes measurable steps and funding to help older adults find work. Additionally our elected leaders should lend support and momentum to a City-wide Senior Workforce Empowerment Campaign (SWEC). This campaign would help significant numbers of seniors find work by: raising awareness of the need, planning for specific job creation strategies (especially those that are self-sustaining, like ReServe), and then mobilizing computer trainers, coordinators and community connectors. SWEC can become that meeting point where government, nonprofits, community agencies, business, philanthropies – and seniors – all come together, act in unison, and leverage now-scattershot efforts for a true movement.

If this world-class city is going to truly promote economic sustainability, it needs to acknowledge the unique barriers facing older adults, recognize win-win rewards of mobilizing an older adult workforce, and become a catalyst for new, sustainable and measurable senior job creation.

San Francisco should be an incubator for new models of a 21st Century workforce that spans, and benefits, the entire, authentic working-age spectrum. San Francisco seniors want a hand, not a hand-out, plus new opportunities to earn needed income, contribute and connect – time tested ingredients for human happiness.
————————————————————————————————————–
Editor Contacts:

Marie Jobling, Executive Director, Community Living Campaign (CLC)
415-821-1003, ex. 1; marie@sfcommunityliving.org
1360 Mission Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94103

Jill Center, CLC Board Vice President
415-242-1254; jillcenter@sbcglobal.net