LifePath recently received two significant grants to further Age- and Dementia-Friendly Initiatives in Franklin County and the North Quabbin region. These funds, totaling $690,000, will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents in our community. The grants were awarded by Point32Health Foundation and the Massachusetts Community Health and Healthy Aging Funds, both of which are focused on promoting healthier, more inclusive environments for aging.
The first grant, a $190,000 award from Point32Health Foundation, spans three years and supports LifePath’s ongoing efforts to create age- and dementia-friendly communities. The second, larger grant, amounting to $500,000 over five years, comes from the Massachusetts Community Health and Healthy Aging Funds. This funding will help LifePath implement their Age- and Dementia-Friendly Franklin County and North Quabbin initiative across 30 towns, in collaboration with the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG) and local resident-led working groups.
Building on Community Engagement
LifePath’s work in the region is deeply rooted in community involvement. Over the past four years, the organization has worked closely with residents to understand their needs and develop a comprehensive plan to support aging with dignity. According to Lynne Feldman, associate executive director of LifePath, the Age-Friendly Action Plan, which outlines the next five years of goals, “was born from the voices of our residents.” She emphasizes that this funding will enable LifePath to move forward with the goals set in the plan, bringing about meaningful change for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Phoebe Walker, director of community health for FRCOG, expressed the excitement of partnering with LifePath on this initiative. “The municipalities of Franklin County are very interested in making the kinds of changes that make this a great place to age,” said Walker, highlighting the importance of collaboration between local governments and nonprofit organizations to achieve this vision.
A Community-Led Approach
One of the unique aspects of LifePath’s initiative is its commitment to resident leadership. The Age- and Dementia-Friendly initiative is guided by a steering committee made up of both professionals and community members. Jean Dodge, a former teacher and steering committee member, likened the initiative to Universal Design in education, a method of designing learning environments that accommodate all students. She explained, “To me, Age- and Dementia-Friendly work is Universal Design; let’s be inclusive.”
By involving local residents in decision-making, LifePath ensures that its efforts reflect the real needs and desires of the people it serves. This community-led approach helps create more inclusive, accessible spaces where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can thrive.
Tackling Health Inequities
LifePath’s work extends beyond making towns more age-friendly. It also addresses larger issues of health inequities and systemic barriers that affect well-being, especially for marginalized communities. The Massachusetts Community Health and Healthy Aging Funds, which awarded LifePath the $500,000 grant, focus on creating long-lasting changes in population health by addressing the root causes of health disparities. This initiative is part of a statewide effort to disrupt systemic racism and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
With this funding, LifePath will continue to work with local partners to reduce health inequities by improving access to services and making communities more inclusive. These efforts will ultimately benefit not only older adults and people with disabilities but all residents of the region.
Support from Point32Health Foundation
In addition to the support from the Massachusetts Community Health and Healthy Aging Funds, LifePath’s efforts are backed by Point32Health Foundation, which awarded them a $190,000 grant. Point32Health Foundation is dedicated to advancing health equity and supporting community-led solutions that promote healthy aging. This grant is part of the foundation’s larger $3 million investment in organizations across New England working to create healthier communities.
Nora Moreno Cargie, president of Point32Health Foundation, praised the work of LifePath and other organizations receiving grants. “These organizations are increasing social connection, improving community approaches to mental health, and making healthy, culturally relevant food accessible—while creating communities that promote equitable aging,” said Cargie.
Looking Ahead
With these generous grants, LifePath is well-positioned to continue its mission of supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers in Franklin County and the North Quabbin region. The organization’s focus on inclusivity, community involvement, and health equity will help create a brighter, healthier future for all residents.
As the Age- and Dementia-Friendly Franklin County and North Quabbin initiative moves forward, LifePath remains committed to ensuring that every person, regardless of age or ability, can live a fulfilling, independent life in their community.
