What brought you to the community you currently live in and what do you love about it?
I reside in Brookland because my husband’s mother asked us to live with her 10 years ago. I love being back in my native Washington, DC after living in Maryland for 35 years. At some GBIV socials, I was able to meet people who graduated from a Washington, DC high school around the time I did. It’s fun to reminisce about our past! I really enjoy riding the Brookland Station Metro to visit museums, see the Cherry Blossoms and visit historical buildings in downtown DC. I also love living within walking distance to several artistic attractions, markets and other businesses.
Can you share a memorable experience or moment you’ve had while living here?
My husband and I have walked the Metropolitan Branch Trail several times from our home to the Capitol building. I was devastated when protesters attacked our nation’s Capitol on January 6th 2021! I couldn’t believe that something like that could happen - especially with so many (or so I thought) police and security guards around it. On a positive note, I really enjoyed our 12th Street Brookland Festival with my family. The food, entertainment and conversations with neighbors were lots of fun.
What does “aging in place” mean to you, and why is it important?
I believe that “Aging in Place” means that there is a significant support system where persons who society considers “seniors” are able to live a full and productive life for the remainder of their lives. With this in mind, the community puts measures in place to allow its “seniors” to remain where they are most comfortable - and not be forced to move elsewhere. It is important to me because as a person reaches “senior status”, the body changes and may require extra help. Villages need to be the first point-of-contact for support!
How do you stay connected with others in the community, and what role does that play in your well-being?
I volunteer weekly as a chef’s assistant for Food and Friends, volunteer at So Others Might Eat (SOME), taught Reading Fluency at Mundo Verde Elementary School, serve as host and volunteer for many activities with GBIV, text or call neighbors to check on their well-being, speak with realtors at open houses in Brookland communities and verbally encourage neighbors to become a member of GBIV. All of the above serve to give me a “sense of purpose”! This usually makes me smile - which, I believe, contributes to my overall health and well-being.
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 would advise persons who want to live independently to stay connected - with family, friends and a community organization such as an Intergenerational village. They should be ready and willing to learn all they can from Villages. GBIV offers many activities that encourage socialization - necessary for an independent, full, happy and productive life.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy, and how do you incorporate them into your daily routine?
I enjoy traveling and walking in parks. I have vacationed in Australia, Europe, Fiji and Africa. In 2024, I traveled to Hawaii for the 3rd time and Cartegna, Colombia, South America for the 1st time. My husband and I walk 5 miles on the Anacostia River trail at least once per week and at the National Arboretum on other days. I also sing with the Metropolitan Baptist Church choir and around the DMV with the Heritage Signature Chorale. I crochet a little, enjoy yoga and like to line dance. I pace myself in order to incorporate them into my routines.
What changes or improvements have you seen in yourself since joining the Village? How has the Village impacted your life?
Since I have been a member of the Village for a few years, I have found that I am more at ease when speaking with neighbors about reasons they should join GBIV. One day I shared with a member of the Village that I had contracted Covid and couldn’t participate in a GBIV activity. She brought me a special tea - which really helped my symptoms! I have taken another village member shopping when she was not able to drive. These two events of many GBIV connections have impacted my life. I’m a firm believer of the “Each One - Help One” or “A Village Concept”!
How does being part of this Village help you stay connected to the community?
GBIV programs, affinity groups, excursions, social events, etc. all serve to connect me with my community and I value them. I also appreciate learning about and participating in other Washington, DC Village events whenever possible.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about aging and the experience of growing older?
I wish more people would understand that it is a privilege to grow older! They should do all they can to take care of their bodies. I wish young people would understand that they should be patient with the aging population. Their pace is far faster than it was when we were younger and it may take more time to grasp “new technologies”!
What are your hopes or dreams for the future of the Village and the community you’re part of?
I wish the Village would reach out to neighborhood schools during PTSA meetings. Ever since a 13 year older from Brookland Middle School was killed while attempting to steal a car at 3AM in Brookland, I see a need to connect with neighborhood parents of young children and teens.They should feel that our Village is there to support them - however we can provide it! I would also like to see the Village sponsor an annual “Dance” to encourage socialization, exercise and distribute GBIV information. With an event such as this, we might see more people become a part of our Village. Lastly, I would like to share that I lived in a “Village” concept community in southeast DC when I was a child. I even won a trophy for my work in the community from the Far Southeast Civic Betterment Association when I was a teenager! (See photo). It shaped me to be the person I am today; so when our young people join a Village their lives can be improved as well!