More than 100 guests and supporters generated at least $26,000 in donations at Tempe Community Action Agency’s Good Neighbor Breakfast fundraiser, aimed at supporting the organization’s senior independence programs.
The funding, which serves economically vulnerable residents, was encouraged through the words of such program recipients as Angela, who told of the impact TCAA has had not only on her but on volunteers as well.
“The breakfast is important because it makes a difference in my life as well as others,” she said.
According to TCAA director of philanthropy Joe Rivera, social isolation and sustained loneliness among older adults can create barriers to individual and community well-being.
TCAA’s 40-plus years of experience in delivering programs and services that enhance the quality of life for seniors helps those community members maintain their independence and dignity.
The organization began to offer senior center-based activities in 1976 and added a variety of nutrition services for seniors in 1981.
“TCAA works to prevent seniors from experiencing isolation, loneliness and serious health risks, so that they can age safely in their homes and within their community of choice. Our senior independence focus combines the best of our senior services experience with our expansive knowledge of the target population and the importance of nutritious, reliable food and social connections for healthy aging.”
With help from volunteers and donors, Rivera noted, TCAA provides a continuum of services to older adults including access to lunchtime meals and activities at Tempe and Scottsdale Senior Centers, transportation, food, case management, home-based support, as well as opportunities to be of service. More than 1,000 area seniors benefit from these services each year, said Rivera.
