Happy Hour Brings Service Projects and Socialization to Older Adults
Happy Hour, the innovative concept that brings mocktails and mission-affirming service projects to older adults recently reached its first-year milestone. Launched in 2018, Happy Hours were designed as a way to bring service projects and much needed socialization to older adults living in low-income apartment communities for 55+.
“Residents frequently tell me that they look forward to coming down to interact with other people and that they love volunteering,” said Elaine Miller, Community Engagement and Happy Hour Coordinator at Connections Volunteer Center. “The way they show their appreciation is by the big hugs I receive, the way they hurry to tell me about things that have happened since I saw them last and the fact that they always ask about the next Happy Hour date and project!”
In it’s first year, 61 residents have participated at Happy Hours at four independent living complexes: Oakhurst Place, Riverside Landing, Londontown and Rainbow Place. Through their participation, eight nonprofits were served including Common Ground Free Store, Preservation Parks and HelpLine.
According to the Mayo Clinic, volunteering leads to lower rates of depression, especially for adults 65 and older. Volunteering also increases social interaction and helps build a support system based on common interests. It’s the symbiotic nature of the program is what caught the attention of Suzanne Pingry, Program Director at Connections, who believes that socialization through service is particularly important for older adults.
“It’s widely known that volunteering helps to reduce chronic or serious illness, feelings of isolation and stress,” said Pingry. “Happy Hour is a way to ensure older adults who are sometimes home-bound are strengthening their minds and bodies through connection with and service to others.
Donna Coe, Social Worker and Service Coordinator at Oakhurst Place, says that Happy Hour is a favorite among the residents. “I never have to remind them more than once about Happy Hour,” said Coe. “They see it once and I know they’ll be there.”
To learn more about Happy Hours, contact Elaine Miller at 740.363.5000 or emiller@helplinedelmor.org.
