Inspiring Opportunities is an e-mail from Coming of Age for people 50+ who are making a difference in the world, in their communities and in their lives.



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While child-care problems get more attention in the workplace, the emergencies that beset the aged -- a fall, a stroke, the errant behavior of dementia -- tend to be more disruptive, forcing working caregivers to drop everything and rush to the scene. To feel better prepared for the "unforseen,"this Wall Street Journal article looks into ways that you can organize your work to be able to respond to emergencies, still be responsible to your employer, and maintain your sanity. Check out these ideas from consultants, coaches, and caregivers.


Southeastern Pennsylvania is a hotbed of world-class arts and culture with theater, fine arts, and museums centerpieces of the regional economy. Yet, inside the strengths lurk some problems that need addressing. The Big Canvas dialogue has been been created to consider issues and find solutions with the support of The Philadelphia Inquirer and the Penn Project for Civic Engagement. Sign up to participate in a forum and get involved in keeping arts and culture vital in this region.


As we know, baby boomers are the most educated generation in American history. Our desire to stay active, intellectually stimulated, and among people of all ages continues right into retirement... and many seek classes, museums, courses in art and writing. It sounds a lot like...being in college! An estimated 22 retirement communities are linked to colleges and universities, situated right on campuses or very near to them. These living arrangements seem to offer both comfort and challenge. Learn more...


The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) provides a free online navigational tool to help older adults search for licensed housing options throughout the country, including assisted living communities, nursing homes, residential care facilities, and independent living choices. The Senior Housing Locator provides objective information through a database of more than 60,000 listings... and can be very helpful in finding a home for yourself or a family member.




 
Plan to attend Cooper University Hospital's Breakthrough: Energy, Attitude &Good Health for Women 50+ celebration on Saturday, September 27, 9 am - 4 pm, in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey. Special keynote by Elizabeth Edwards, who will discuss her book, Saving Graces: Finding Solace and Strength from Friends and Strangers. This fun, informative event offers workshops that will help you explore how to look and feel your best during this adventurous time of life, as well as health screenings, products, and services. To register and learn more, click


Pursue your passion for a career in social work, international affairs, education, public policy, divinity, and other non-profit programs! Representatives from 112 public interest and social change graduate programs will be available on Monday, September 22, from 5 - 8 pm at the Idealist.org Philadelphia Graduate Degree Fair for the Public Good to discuss your interests and provide information, hosted by The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. This free event will be held on campus at Houston Hall, 3417 Spruce Street, Philadelphia.




  If you know of a volunteer opportunity in the Greater Philadelphia area that you would like featured here, e-mail details to havewegot@comingofage.org. You can find more opportunities at:




The Iowa Civil Rights Commission is recruiting for full time, one-year positions in Davenport, Des Moines, Fort Dodge, Sioux City and Waterloo for its Iowa Human &Civil Rights VISTA Project. This project focuses on increasing the ability of state and local civil and human rights agencies to end discrimination and to increase public awareness of civil rights and diversity in Iowa and in local communities. The application deadline is September 26, 2008 for a starting date of November 24, 2008. Read More.


We can't afford to leave $20 million unclaimed. Less than 39 days remain for almost 100,000 Southeastern Pennsylvania residents (mostly seniors and veterans) to apply for their "economic stimulus rebate"- between $300-$600 for single taxpayers and up to $1200 for couples. In today's economy, every dollar counts! To find out how you can help, call (215) 557-3180 or contact the Benefits Bank.


Jewish Family and Children's Services of Greater Philadelphia will launch Dynamic Duos: The Power of Two, a site-based mentoring program for youth, ages 10-18, who are receiving child welfare services. Mentors are needed to volunteer two hours of their time every other Wednesday or Thursday for one year. The program, which begins in October, will take place at JFCS' new Mentoring Center at 1501 N. Broad Street. For more information, e-mail Renee Mezer or call (267) 256-2289.


Temple University Center City is seeking a part-time (20 hr/wk) Coordinator to recruit new members for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. The Coordinator will develop a recruitment plan, prioritize and initiate activities, follow up on all recruitment efforts, and track activities using Microsoft Office software. A car is needed. Temple University is an equal opportunity employer. To apply for this position, click. (see code: TU-11561 for Coordinator Recruitment)


Voters throughout the region are counting on the Committee of Seventy to make sure that this historic election is clean and that every vote counts. Volunteers are needed on Election Day, November 4th, to make sure that things run smoothly. Your early registration to be a part of this civic activity makes it easier for the Committee to prepare. For information and to sign up, call Dan Bright at (215) 557-3600, ext. 124 or e-mail.




We list events and opportunities here we think will interest people 50+ who want to make a difference. If you know of such events, please send us information. If you attended an event you learned about here, please send us a review.

And don't forget to check out our website Community Calendar too!


11: 00 am at Eakins Oval (in front of Art Museum), Philadelphia
Indian culture comes alive as flower-bedecked, ornately carved chariots are pulled along Benjamin Franklin Parkway by devotees of ancient Indian deities, marking the beginning of the Ratha Yatra Festival of India. Costumed dance ensembles, mounted horsemen, kirtan chanters, worshippers, and spectators will proceed to the Art Museum area where the celebration continues with a free vegetarian feast, musical performances, dance, booths, food, and hand-made crafts. Don't miss this annual spiritual and cultural extravaganza!


8: 00 am at Eakins Oval (in front of the Art Museum), Philadelphia
Pump up your tires for the Commerce Bank Bike Philly through historic neighborhoods in Center City and hidden corners of Fairmount Park along 20 miles of car-free streets. All skill levels are welcome on routes that include 10, 20, 35, and 50 mile trips. Proceeds benefit the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, a nonprofit that works to make biking safer through advocacy and a new bicycle education partnership between the Police Athletic League (PAL) and the Bicycle Coalition. Go to ridebikephilly.com to register.


1: 30 pm at Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion, 200 W. Tulpehocken Street, Philadelphia
Creating crazy quilts was a popular pastime during the Victorian Era. Step back in time and join this needlework group at the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion, the only authentically restored Victorian house museum and garden in Philadelphia, to learn embroidery and beading techniques -- hallmarks of crazy quilting. This class is for newcomers as well as seasoned quilters. Tea and cookies will be served. $30 for the class, $7 for materials. Call (215) 438-1861 to register.


6: 00 pm at National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia
Senator Arlen Specter will explain the Food and Drug Administration’s role in evaluating and regulating America's medical products, specifically in the area of cancer research. The discussion, entitled, “Funding and Monitoring America’s Health,” will include Dr. Frank Torti, Principal Deputy Commissioner of the FDA and John Timpane, a reporter and editor for The Philadelphia Inquirer, as moderator. Reservations required, call (215) 409-6700. $15 for non-members.


9: 00 am at Kimmel Cancer Center-Bodine, 111 S. 11th Street, Philadelphia
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Jefferson's Kimmel Cancer Center is offering free prostate screening as part of a research program. Screening is important because this form of cancer shows no symptoms in its earliest stages. A blood test for prostate specific antigen (PSA), testosterone, and cholesterol, and a digital rectal exam are offered. To register, call 1-800-JEFF-NOW.


7: 00 pm at The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street, Philadelphia
As part of its "Out of Africa"lecture series, The Franklin Institute will present a panel discussion on the politics of slavery and race in America. The distinguished panel includes Dr. Cornel West (photo on left) of Princeton University; Dr. Tukufu Zuberi, University of Pennsylvania; and moderator Dr. Molefi Kete Asante,Temple University. $10 for non-members, $5 for members. To register, call (215) 448-1254.


2: 00 pm at Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia
Here's a chance to learn how to use a mouse, keyboard basics, and the Vista operating system by working on Microsoft Word, the library’s catalog, and the Internet. Free instruction. All you need is a library card. Tickets are available 30 minutes before class begins at the Information Desk and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. For additional information, call: (215) 686-5322.





For You and Those You Care For


The next Caregiving broadcast sponsored by the Centers for Medicare &Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Department of Health and Human Services New Freedom Initiative Subcommittee (NFI) is scheduled for September 17, 2008, from 1: 00 p.m.-2: 00 p.m. (Eastern Time). The broadcast will include presentations from employers who have developed successful programs to help employed caregivers deal with their responsibilities. There will also be a live Q&A session with presenters after the broadcast airs via audio lines. Read More.

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VISTA is looking for experienced, energetic individuals who want to make a full-time, year-long commitment to fight poverty. If you’re retiring soon, already there or want to take a year off for a year of service, VISTA may be for you. Living allowances and other benefits are provided. More About VISTA

See this week's featured VISTA opportunity under "Have We Got an Opportunity For You."