the rise of suicide in middle aged white America: retirement no longer bonus, but time of struggle

[flamingdem]

15. Check this out: The Village Movement - there's one in Santa Barbara not LA

I wish it was more extensive. This kind of thing will grow since the need is there. I hope so anyway.

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The Village movement has become a stunning example of how community collaborations can help older Americans improve the quality of their lives, remain in their homes as they age, and save money in the process. And with the government facing enormous deficits for the foreseeable future, Villages also represent a welcome, cost-effective way for citizens to take responsibility for themselves during an era of declining public resources.

According to the Village to Village Network, there are currently (as of September 2015) about 190 Villages operating across the U.S., in Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, with over 120 additional Villages in development. However, that is literally the tip of a large and growing movement. Candace Baldwin, Director of Strategy for Aging in Community at NCB Capital Impact and the Village to Village Network, says representatives from 600 communities have attended various Village meetings in the past year or so.

To some people, a Village might sound like nothing more than a modern-day replacement for close-knit family support. For most families, today's lifestyle is very different from years ago when relatives were viable options for support on an everyday basis. And even aging parents with nearby children and grandchildren often must seek broader support networks. With the increasing lifespan of our elders, we are also looking to provide support for the adult children of aging parents.

What People are Saying
“When I joined SBV it was actually to broaden my horizons and meet new people. Never did I guess how desperately I would need rides to Dr. appointments and much much more. Healing is SLOW but it is better each day. You have been so very wonderful. Thank you so much.”
- Pat M., SB Village Member