Writing Group Amplifies Voices of Older Adults for Health of Society
Whatever the results of the U.S. election, older adults have a shared task before them: to become elders who guide individuals and communities toward justice, inclusion and sustainability.
That’s the purpose of “Aging for the Common Good,” an initiative of the sacred/civic placemaking organization Sympara.
At the heart of the initiative are small writing groups of older adults who explore themes of loss, discovery and transformation as they step into the role of elders in navigating crisis and change. The next writing group starts Nov. 4.
The program is built around the writing of short essays, which will be published by the award-winning website Senior Correspondent.
This is the fifth writing group Sympara has run this year.
“This writing group awoke part of my creative self that had been asleep a long time,” said recent participant Susan Schwamkrug. “The facilitator was knowledgeable and encouraging, and challenged us to dig deeper with our writing.”
Daniel Pryfogle, founder of Senior Correspondent and cofounder and CEO of Sympara, will facilitate the writing group, which will meet via Zoom on Wednesdays from 4-5 p.m. Eastern through December 9.
“The value of any writing group starts with the accountability to others, that nudge to help us get off the schneid and write,” said Hugh Willard, another recent participant. “The value of Sympara resides in Daniel's astute facilitation and the rich, vibrant conversations shared amongst the whole group.”
The group is limited to 12 participants. There is no charge for participants. For inquiries or to sign up, contact Daniel Pryfogle at daniel@sympara.org.
About Sympara
Founded in 2003, Sympara is a multifaith/interspiritual community of practice whose public mission is to repurpose religious assets for the common good. Through education, Sympara forms leaders who evoke the gifts of people and place. Through consulting, the organization maps assets, discerns opportunities, and develops partnerships. And through placemaking, Sympara creates sacred/civic spaces that catalyze more just and sustainable communities. Learn more at www.sympara.org.
About Senior Correspondent
Founded in 2010, Senior Correspondent is an award-winning news website that amplifies the voices of older adults for the common good. Entirely driven by the stories of older adults, Senior Correspondent offers unique news reporting, commentary and personal essays for a multigenerational readership. Learn more at www.seniorcorrespondent.com.