Active Living 55+, Cumberland

Contact: Devon Galvan (dgalvan@cumberlandmaine.com)

Joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities: 2016-07-25

Structure: Municipal staff with appointed volunteer committee

Highlight of 2023: We implemented a monthly luncheon program. This is a great way to offer a space for community connections, inclusion, and social interactions. This was made possible through a grant from SMAA. We are so thankful to have this opportunity. 

We have also started weekly programs at our new Recreation Center, we offer fun and informative programming ranging from health talks to cribbage four days a week. 

Active Living 55+ Cumberland's Initiatives and Accomplishments:

Community Supports and Health Services

• Durable Medical Equipment Are you recovering from an injury or surgery and need medical equipment? ALC will loan you a walker, shower seat, commode, or other medical equipment at no charge.

• Active Living Luncheon Join us on the last Monday of the month for a free luncheon. Enjoy good food, meet new friends, and socialize. Registration is required.

Housing

• Handy Helpers - Active Living 55+ volunteers will do minor chores and other simple handyman assignments that don’t require licenses (e.g. plumbing, electrical work).

• Big Project Day Held is May and October. Volunteers help older residents get ready for Bulky Item Pickup, do yard work, and help with projects around the house.

Social Participation

• Daily activities at the Recreation Center at Val Halla. "Learn Something New" on Monday, join the singing group on Tuesday, Wednesday is the special event day including a movie matinee, concert, BINGO, and Mornings with Friends, and Thursday is game day. All programs are drop in and free.

• Mornings with Friends - This free programming happens monthly on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 10:00 - 11:30 am. We feature topics from retirement, scams, emergency preparedness, and more! Coffee, tea, and goodies will be served.

Transportation (including promotion of active transportation)

• The Cumberland Area Rides (CAR) program provides rides to medical appointments, pharmacy, grocery store, religious services, food pantry, and general errands. Ride requests are made through our coordinators and every effort is made to fill the requests, although there are occasions when no volunteer is available. This program is for Cumberland residents, who are 60 and older.