NEW ROCHELLE, NY — New Rochelle Cares AIP, proudly joins the ranks of more than 150 Aging In Place organizations springing up all across the country to serve the 60+ population residing independently in their own homes. A network of neighbors who have determined to age in place and assist others to do the same, New Rochelle Cares AIP will provide a concierge with information about services and resources, transportation, and an events calendar that members will enjoy.
The launch party was held at the home of Tracy & Evan Levy, long-time residents of New Rochelle. Members, volunteers, partners, supporters, and guests all got a chance to meet and celebrate one another on Sunday afternoon, November 1st.
Co-founder Frankie Shahar spoke briefly about her experiences of “meeting people in their 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, who are vital and active contributors to the community. They serve as a demonstration of what senior life can, and should be,” she said. “The model of New Rochelle Cares AIP is to provide opportunity for engaging with new people, new projects and full lives for seniors living in the New Rochelle community. Our diverse volunteers are eager to enhance the experience of seniors by sharing their skills and meeting seniors with experience and extensive knowledge of our community. New Rochelle Cares embraces intergenerational shared experiences. We are going to be the premier source for information on services, programs and special events available to New Rochelle senior residents, all in one phone call. Beyond that we are offering a social support system that facilitates connections to friends, medical providers, retailers and services essential for seniors to remain comfortably in their own homes.”
Volunteers cross generations and Sara Just-Michael was one such attendee Sunday. The 23 year old tells why she finds New Rochelle Cares AIP the organization she wants to help. “ My
grandfather has lived in our home for 15 years now, and my paternal grandparents lived a mile away for the later years of their lives. So I recognize the importance of giving back to those who
brought us up and taught us all that we know today. Now they deserve to be taken care of by us. Whether its supporting them by spending time and talking to them or taking them to doctors
appointments, my family and I have been able to give my grandparents amazing care. I think that everyone should have access to quality care, and NRC AIP will be an amazing resource for anyone and everyone to get the help they need. “
The Partners in attendance: Mayor Noam Bramson, representing the partnership with the City of New Rochelle; State Senators George Latimer and Andrea Stewart-Cousins; Haina Just Michael, President of the New Rochelle Public Library; Dean Dr. Roberta Harris of Monroe College Graduate School; Friedhilde Milburn and Kitty Wynkopp from WestFair Rides, which will provide transportation to medical appointments; Dr. Lois Sternberg, President of the Center For Aging in Place; and Colette Phipps, LMSW from Mt. Vernon.
Members receive assistance with transportation to medical, cultural, social and shopping sites. As the daughter of one of NRC’s members says, “New Rochelle Cares has been instrumental in helping my mom with her driving needs. Throughout the entire process, they have been professional, courteous and compassionate. They are always able to find someone to take her to her appointments. They are punctual in picking her up, staying with her at her appointments and returning her home. They give her the autonomy she needs, in a nonthreatening, friendly way. It is an amazing organization, which New Rochelle is so lucky to have.”