‘GATHER’ launches as new community-based healthy aging initiative

Partners In Care Maryland, Inc., in collaboration with Chesapeake Life Center, proudly announces the launch of “GATHER: Learn. Connect. Thrive.,” a yearlong healthy aging and social learning initiative.

“GATHER” is designed to strengthen social connection, lifelong learning, emotional wellbeing and aging in place through accessible, community-based programming for older adults and caregivers across Maryland.

At its core, the series is built on a simple belief: healthy aging depends not only on healthcare, but also on connection, purpose, learning, resilience and belonging.

A community-centered approach

GATHER offers in-person, virtual and hybrid experiences hosted throughout the county at trusted community locations including senior centers, libraries, faith communities, Chesapeake Life Center and the Center for Hope & Healing.

Programming includes:

·Community conversations and peer learning

·Wellness, mindfulness, movement and healing experiences

·Therapeutic arts and expressive programming

·Caregiver education and support

·Workshops on aging in place, brain health, safety and resilience

·Sessions on caregiving, grief and emotional well-being

Supplemental microlearning tools—including short videos, tip sheets and caregiver resources—extend learning beyond each session and support ongoing engagement.

The first event will be “Scamademic 2026.” Protect yourself from scams with the tools and information you need to stay safe. Join special guest Andre Lingham of Safe Aging Strategies as we cover how to recognize warning signs, report suspicious activity and prevent fraud before it happens. Together with your family and caregivers, you can help stop scams in their tracks.

It will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 28, in the Partners In Care Conference Room, 8151-C Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122. To register, visit https://partnersincaremd.salsalabs.org/gatherscamdemic/index.html.

Why GATHER Matters

As Maryland’s older adult population grows, so does the need for community-based support that addresses both practical needs and social well-being. Older adults and caregivers are increasingly impacted by isolation, caregiver stress, chronic illness, transportation barriers, digital literacy gaps, financial exploitation and grief.

Research consistently shows that strong social connections, lifelong learning and community engagement improve cognitive health, resilience and overall quality of life. GATHER responds with a relationship-centered model that integrates education, wellness and human connection into one coordinated experience.

A Shared Vision for the Future

Our vision is to create a vibrant and connected community where older adults remain engaged, informed, resilient and supported throughout the aging journey.

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About Partners In Care Maryland, Inc.

Partners In Care Maryland, Inc. is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping older adults age 60+ remain independent and age in place with dignity and respect. Through its unique Service Exchange/Time Banking model, members support one another with transportation, handyman services, social engagement and other neighborly assistance — neighbors helping neighbors.

Partners In Care is proud to be a part of Chesapeake Health Partners, a organization focused on strengthening community-based care and support services across the region.