What brought you to the community you currently live in and what do you love about it?
I started working at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in 1990 and in 1991 purchased and moved to my home in DC. Previous to moving, I was living and working in Baltimore and was a frequent visitor to the District, going to dance, theater, and music performances, as well as art exhibits. I was in DC more than I was in Baltimore, so it made sense to move. When I was house-hunting, I knew I wanted to live close to downtown, I wanted to live in an integrated neighborhood, I wanted a yard, and I wanted something I could afford. The Woodridge neighborhood was the right fit. I like the fact that I can take advantage of all DC has to offer and live in a neighborhood that is residential, quiet, and feels more like a suburb.
Can you share a memorable experience or moment you’ve had while living here?
One of the things I most like about this neighborhood is its many green spaces. A game changer for me was becoming aware of the neighborhood’s proximity to the U.S. National Arboretum, 450+ acres that is open every day of the year with the exception of Christmas Day. I go there almost every weekend and as many times as I’ve been there, I never fail to see something new, something astounding, and something beautiful. I go there to walk, jog, meditate, bird watch, and enjoy their programs and exhibits.
What does “aging in place” mean to you, and why is it important?
Aging in place means being able to stay in my home, familiar surroundings, and taking care of myself, as long as I can. Aging in my place gives me my sense of independence.
How do you stay connected with others in the community, and what role does that play in your well-being?
My volunteer activities are one way of connecting with others, meeting new people, learning about new things in my community. When I learned about GBIV, I was immediately drawn to the idea of the Village and after attending some programs and enjoying the company of people I met, I wanted to do more. At that point, I became a Village volunteer. And now, I am Chair of GBIV’s Membership Committee and a member of its Board. Connecting with others and working with GBIV adds purpose and dimension to my life.
What advice would you give to others looking to live independently as they age and how has the Village helped you maintain your independence?
I live alone and have no family in the area. As I’ve aged and am looking forward to retirement, I realized that the world of people with whom I am connected will likely become smaller and I may feel isolated. I also know that it’s important to be part of a community. That connection is good for my mental and physical health, and I derive a sense of belonging and happiness from interacting with others and learning from those interactions.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy, and how do you incorporate them into your daily routine?
My interests include reading, gardening, hiking/jogging, music, art, dance, knitting, and volunteering. I’ve volunteered ever since I became an adult. In DC, I volunteered as a docent at the National Arboretum for 20+ years. I currently volunteer at the Humane Rescue Alliance and volunteer with GBIV. I am working full-time, so I pursue my interests outside of work. On most weekends, I jog at the Arboretum. I also frequently metro downtown to see a new museum exhibit. And every 4-6 weeks, I participate in two book groups. GBIV’s book group that reads DC authors and Latin-American Books in Translation, a group I’ve been part of for more than 15 years.
What changes or improvements have you seen in yourself since joining the Village? How has the Village impacted your life?
I’ve become more comfortable in new situations and more willing to try new things.
How does being part of this Village help you stay connected to the community?
The many varied and well-planned programs and activities that this Village offers makes it very easy to meet people in the community, including some who live a few blocks away but I’ve not previously had the pleasure to meet.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about aging and the experience of growing older?
Aging is challenging in so many ways. Staying healthy, staying safe, navigating transportation needs, managing finances wisely, adapting households and a host of many other aspects of one’s life. It feels like everything is different the older we get. Being part of a community means sharing with others who are known and trusted and learning what has worked for them. Community and connection are essential as we age.
What are your hopes or dreams for the future of the Village and the community you’re part of?
I dream of the expansion of GBIV to include even more diversity among members; more intergenerational programming; more partnerships with neighborhood organizations and businesses; expanded transportation and volunteer services. More, more, more. I hope that GBIV becomes a significant voice in bettering the neighborhoods it serves.