February 11, 2025 Breaking News, Latest News, and Videos

A Gift Of Peace Of Mind: WISE Connections:

What if you could give a gift so helpful that it provides peace of mind everyday? For many WISE Connections members and their families, that is exactly what they enjoy. Launched by the nonprofit WISE & Healthy Aging, with help from local volunteer leaders, WISE Connections offers transportation to social and cultural events, doctor appointments or grocery store, and assistance with light chores in the home.

Members also have access to prescreened and discounted vendors that allows them to obtain quality services that are fair and reliable, a convenience that reduces the stress of maintaining a home.

Santa Monica WISE Connections’ “Your Neighborhood Resource for Living Well” was born out of a concept originating in Boston’s Beacon Hill in 2001.

It is part of the “village” concept that helps older adults remain in their home, living independently. It has since been replicated around the country, with more than 150 active and developing “villages.”

“Gifting a membership can open up new experiences and friendships for older adults who are at risk of becoming isolated,” said Allison Beale, WISE Connections manager. “A parent or friend can benefit from increased social events such as regular restaurant or movie outings, potluck gatherings, museum, or shopping trips.”

WISE Connections also has links to other resources often needed by older adults, such as free lectures, financial planners, notary service, counseling, and more.

It also offers help with seasonal needs like cleaning out rain gutters and checking smoke detectors in the home.

“We add services based on our members’ feedback,” said Barbara Browning, chair of the Santa Monica WISE Connections Governing Council and long-term resident of Santa Monica.

She and Vice Chair Mary Jo Dalton, both nurses, along with other volunteers, help with providing rides, running errands, or organizing interesting social activities.

Members receive a monthly news bulletin with a menu of upcoming activities.

Recent activities included a trip to the premiere of Il Teatro alla Moda and a harbor boat ride and lunch at Ports O’Call – a refreshing departure from typical offerings in the community.

For more information about how a WISE Connections membership can provide peace of mind for you, or a loved one, please call 310.829.5699 or go to www.wiseconnections.net.

WISE Connections is a program of WISE & Healthy Aging, a nonprofit agency serving older adults and their caregivers for more than 40 years.

in News
<>Related Posts

New Bill Targets Crime in Disaster Zones – Here’s What You Need to Know

February 10, 2025

February 10, 2025

Lawmakers Push for Tougher Penalties To Protect Vulnerable Communities California lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at cracking down...

Mysterious Death Near Santa Monica Shoreline, Police Investigating

February 10, 2025

February 10, 2025

SMPD Seeks Information About Victim With Facial Trauma  The Santa Monica Police Department is investigating the death of a woman...

Burned Palisades Lot Sells for Nearly $1M: REPORT

February 10, 2025

February 10, 2025

Aerial images show the property was among several homes in the neighborhood destroyed by the fire A vacant lot in...

Palisades Symphony to Host Benefit Concert to Support Displaced Musicians

February 10, 2025

February 10, 2025

Several members of the Palisades Symphony lost their homes in the fires, making this concert a deeply personal effort The...

What about are you protected from future wildfires?

February 9, 2025

February 9, 2025

Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the recent wildfires and Santa Ana windstorms in Southern California. We...

Shore Hotel Remains Sustainability Leader

February 9, 2025

February 9, 2025

By Susan Payne On track to open its new coastal-inspired restaurant, Shore Hotel has excited new offerings and initiatives this...

Rescheduled 2024 Homeless Count Needs More Volunteers on the Westside

February 9, 2025

February 9, 2025

Not Enough Volunteers to Successfully Count Unhoused Angelenos This Year With the rescheduled dates for the 2025 Greater Los Angeles...

Student Protest Over Immigration Policies Leads to Walkouts Across the Westside

February 7, 2025

February 7, 2025

Walkout Turns Tense as Counter-Protester Confronts Teen in Video From Venice Students from Santa Monica High School (SAMOHI), Culver City...

10-Year-Old Palisades Girl Wins Martial Arts Medals Weeks After Losing Home to Fire

February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025

Savoian, a green belt in Yoshukai karate, trained at Gerry Blanck’s Martial Arts Center in Pacific Palisades Just weeks after...

Open Arms Art Show Runs Through Mar. 22 in Burbank

February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025

Opening Exhibition Saturday Feb. 8 from 12 to 8p.m. More than an art show, the Open Arms Exhibition is an...

Quiet Luxury: What’s Inside the New Regent Boutique and Sweet July

February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025

The Regent Santa Monica Beach, known for its perfect Santa Monica getaways, or local dining at its Mediterranean-based restaurant Orla...

Santa Monica Waives Outdoor Dining Fees After Wildfires

February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025

101 businesses participate in Santa Monica’s outdoor dining programs, which began as a temporary measure during COVID-19 In an effort...

(Photos) Kamala Harris Visits Destruction of Palisades Fire

February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025

Harris spoke with first responders, service providers, and evacuees about recovery efforts and resources Former Vice President Kamala Harris joined...

Film Review: Companion

February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025

FILM REVIEWCOMPANIONRated R97 MinutesReleased January 31st Companion is like an O. Henry short story, moving at a breezy clip, with...

Best Spots to Celebrate Valentines, Galentines, or Have a Super Bowl Party on the Westside

February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025

Cocktails, Game Day Grub, Valentine’s Pasta, and a Lonely Heart’s Tea Service You will find many excellent ways to celebrate...