Age-Friendly Caribou
Contact: Elizabeth Singer (esinger@carymed.org)
Joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities: 2018-03-02
Structure: Led by Cary Medical Ctr. staff, volunteer committee
Highlight of 2023: This past year we continued with several successful programs like our: sand bucket program to help prevent slips and falls in the winter; our Senior Santa program that provides presents from the community to residents that are isolated or could use some kindness during the holidays; Coffee Talk programs provide a chance to hear guest speakers talk about important and fun topics, and give a chance to socialize; and our Tech Talk programs provide one-on-one technology support and training.
The accomplishment we are most proud of is working with the City parks and recreation department and a local non-profit, Nurture by Nature, to start a community garden. The garden is located across the street from two older adult communities and the nursing home. There is a section that we planted, where the produce that grows is available to anyone. We have raised beds to enhance accessibility, and hope to add more in the future. We are also looking into funding to add a gazebo or space where people can meet or have small events. Any produce that we grow that isn’t been taken by community members is donated to the local food bank and soup kitchen. We look forward to expanding this space and making it a nice place to grow food, host events, and allow people to experience the therapeutic benefits of gardening and being outside.