EVENTS CALENDAR

SENIOR SUMMIT 2024!

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

See our Flyer on the Senior Summit Page

2024 FUTURE PLANNED EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

The Second Tuesday of each month

2024 CLASSES TO RETURN THIS FALL!

STAY TUNED!

The Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center

 PRESENTS

Dr. Tonya LaLonde

Outreach Audiologist for Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center

Mary Beth Rutlege, MSW

 Social Worker/Resource Specialist for Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center

We will be speaking on a bit of the history of Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center, what we do for our patients, and who we serve in our community.

 Monthly Educational Meeting

9:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2024

SENIOR SCHOLARS RETURNS!

February 5 through 15, 2024

See the class listing and dates on the Senior Scholars page!

 

Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 10:00 AM

Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center

Presents

Open House and Holiday Celebration

The Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center is inviting all participants to attend our Tuesday, December 12th meeting at 10 A.M.  We will have an Open House and Holiday Celebration at our office and classroom located at College Heights United Methodist Church.  Hope to see you there!

Join us at 934 South Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33803

November 14, 2023

A speaker from Polk County Veteran Services.

Please come and join us to learn more about the many resources that are available in Polk County.

PAST EVENTS

October 10, 2023

Medicare Open Enrollment

September 12, 2023

Cindy Sharp and Gwen Stanislowski of the Lakeland Police Department speaking on LPD’s Elderly Services Program.

 August 8, 2023

Amanda Porter LCSW

and

Danielle Clinton Family Advisor

Senior Housing: Levels of Care and Funding

June 13, 2023

 

Alzheimer’s

by Jody Streussnig 

 

April 11, 2023

Earnest Faust, Jr.

Lakeland Housing Authority,  ROSS Coordinator

(863) 687-2911

 

March 14, 2023

Margaret Xanthopoulos

Palliative and Hospice care.

February 14, 2023

Michelle Shiver

Success and the Senior Volunteer

Michelle Shiver, CVA, is the RSVP Polk Coordinator for the Polk County Board of County Commissioners.

 


January 10, 2023

Nicole Ramer

Certified Move Manager and founder of Organized Haven.

Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 10:00 AM

Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center

Presents

Open House and Holiday Celebration

The Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center is inviting all participants to attend our Tuesday, December 12th meeting at 10 A.M.  We will have an Open House and Holiday Celebration at our office and classroom located at College Heights United Methodist Church.   All are invited to bring food to share!  Hope to see you there!

Join us at 934 South Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33803.

Tuesday, November 8, 2022, 9:00 AM

Samantha Kotz

South Central District Manager 

 Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program •Elder Affairs

Long-Term Care volunteers improve the quality of life and care for people who live in licensed long-term care facilities such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult family care homes throughout Florida.

Tuesday, October 11, 2022, 9:00 AM

Our panel of experts will cover aspects of Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment.  

You can view details in the Post HERE.

Tuesday, August 9, 2022, 9:00 AM

Our speaker is June May, Director of 2-1-1 for United Way of Central Florida.

The 2-1-1 program is a vital service that connect

June began working as the Director of 2-1-1 for United Way in 2000. She is a graduate of Delaware Law School of Widener University.  

 

She practiced law in Philadelphia and New Jersey.  She was an adjunct professor teaching Legal Research, Writing and Paralegal Studies for the Law School.  

 

For the last 22 years June has worked as an advocate for the citizens of Polk, Hardee and Highland Counties.

This is a Zoom only meeting.  If you haven’t received an email with the Zoom Link, call 863-220-7002.

 


Rath does not have a July meeting. 

Our next meeting is Tuesday, August 9. 

Tuesday, June 14, 2022, 9:00 AM

>>>>In-Person AND via Zoom<<<

Current State of Affordable Housing in Greater Lakeland-Polk County

Cedric Cox, SRHousing Administrative Supervisor, Polk County Housing and Neighborhood Development Presentation HERE

View the PowerPoint Presentation HERE

Brian RewisDirector of Community & Economic Development, City of Lakeland

View the PowerPoint Presentation HERE

Tuesday, April 12, 2022, 9:00 AM

>>>>We are Back In-Person AND via Zoom<<<

ADVANCE Planning – What’s Your Plan?

The majority of Americans do not have a will or have done any estate planning.

Is this you?  “I just keep putting it off!”  “I just haven’t gotten around to it.”

Our panel of experts will present all you need to know about getting your affairs in order NOW for the future.

Where:          Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center located at St. Joseph’s William McDonald Center, 210 West Lemon Street, Lakeland, FL 33815

When:            Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at 9:00 a.m.

How:              In-Person or Via Zoom

Speakers:      Our panel includes these experts:

Ben Darby, Elder Law Attorney, Darby Law Group, PA

Lanet Owen, BSN, RN-BC, Faith Community Nurse, BayCare Health System

Armand Rapetti, Financial Services Professional, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company

January 11, 2022, ZOOM, at 9:00 AM

An update on transportation needs for older adults and those persons with disabilities, by Steve Bissonnette from VISTE and a representative from the Citrus Connection.

EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2022:

(WHEN JOINING A ZOOM MEETING PRESENTATION, PLEASE “MUTE” YOUR AUDIO)

EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2021:

August 10th, 9:00 AM

Our special guest speaker is: Vashtie Ragbir-Bhagan  Adult Protective Investigation Supervisor Adult Protective Services, DCF She will cover the services provided to vulnerable adults by Adult Protective Services

June 8th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on June 8th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.  We hope to resume in-person meetings soon and provide Zoom access.

COVID Update:  Dr. Daniel Haight, Lakeland Regional Health TO VIEW THE RECORDING, CLICK HERE.

May 20, 2021

See the SOUL (Senior Organizations Uniting Locally) Spring flyer below–this organization helps Seniors in our community to meet their needs.  They need your help!!!

Soul Spring Flyer

May 11, 2021

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on May 11th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom. “Communities of Strength” Older Americans Month 2021, Charlotte McHenry, CEO & President, Senior Connection Center

April 13, 9:00 AM

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on April 13th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom. “The Best Way To Find Yourself Is To Lose Yourself In The Service Of Others.” Mahatma Gandhi As a volunteer you can learn new skills and connect with the community. Indeed, volunteering can even add joy and health to your life and others. Our April program “Volunteering – Virtual and In-person Opportunities” will feature Eva Hawkins of LVIM and Michelle Shiver of RSVP.

February 9

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs with Barbara Stone covering Guardianships.  Topic:  Guardianship: All You Need To Know   You may view the slideshow:     Guardianship _All you need to know_. 02092021   Below is an additional video you might find interesting:

Getting old should not mean losing control | Nicole Ruggiano | TEDxFIU  LINK

  First Meeting of 2021 – Tuesday, January 12 at 9:00 via Zoom.   Topic: Homelessness in Lakeland
  • Mayor Bill Mutz of Lakeland
  • Ben Stevenson, Executive Director of Lakeland Housing Authority
  • Jeff Bagwell, Director of the Keystone Challenge Fund a nonprofit helping low/mid income families find homes
If you do not routinely receive the meeting notice and wish to participate, send an email to Andy Crossfield at usandy@aol.com for the meeting ID and password.   Please indicate in the subject line “Request for Zoom ID/Password for Rath Center meeting.”

EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2020:

 

JANUARY

January 14

Respite Care –Alice Brown Polk County Aging & Social Service Manager Health & Human Services  

FEBRUARY

February 11

Hailey Aversa, Noah’s Ark of Central Florida   SENIOR SCHOLARS–February 3 through March 16, nine classes.  

MARCH

March 10

SOUL – Senior Organizations Uniting Locally – Barb Cage  

APRIL

April 14

Meeting canceled due to Covid-19  

MAY

May 12

Self Care, Health Care & Benefits during Covid-19 Panel  (Via Zoom)  

JUNE

June 09

Hurricane Preparedness During Covid-19 – Carolyn Bluhm  (Via Zoom)  

JULY

July 14

Dr Joy Jackson, Director, Florida Department of Health for Polk and Hardee County – Covid-19 Summary and Community Call to Action  (Via Zoom)

RATH WEBSITE REDO!!!

 

AUGUST

August 11   

Long Term Care panel of experts “Looking Ahead Right Now” covering various levels of care and costs provided by home care agencies, senior living facilities, skilled nursing centers, and Long Term Care Insurance  (Via Zoom)  

SEPTEMBER

September 8

Learn About LkldNow with our guest speaker, Trinity Laurino, Community Engagement Director   SENIOR SUMMIT—-Stay tuned for 2021!!!  

OCTOBER

October 13

Medicare Open Enrollment Panel of Experts covering 2021 Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medigap (Via Zoom)   SENIOR SCHOLARS—-Stay tuned for 2021!!!  

NOVEMBER

November 10

Christine Samuel, Director of Diversity and Inclusion for City of Winter Haven  (Via Zoom)      

DECEMBER

December 8

Celebrate the Holidays and Recognize our Wonderful Volunteers (via Zoom)

 

December 14, 2021

Rath Annual Holiday Celebration

was enjoyed

Tuesday, December 14th at 12 o’clock Noon

Here is a LINK to pictures of the Event!!!

Thanks to all attendeees!!!

 

EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2021:

August 10th, 9:00 AM

Our special guest speaker is: Vashtie Ragbir-Bhagan  Adult Protective Investigation Supervisor Adult Protective Services, DCF She will cover the services provided to vulnerable adults by Adult Protective Services

June 8th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on June 8th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.  We hope to resume in-person meetings soon and provide Zoom access.

COVID Update:  Dr. Daniel Haight, Lakeland Regional Health TO VIEW THE RECORDING, CLICK HERE.

May 20, 2021

See the SOUL (Senior Organizations Uniting Locally) Spring flyer below–this organization helps Seniors in our community to meet their needs.  They need your help!!!

Soul Spring Flyer

May 11, 2021

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on May 11th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom. “Communities of Strength” Older Americans Month 2021, Charlotte McHenry, CEO & President, Senior Connection Center

April 13, 9:00 AM

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on April 13th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom. “The Best Way To Find Yourself Is To Lose Yourself In The Service Of Others.” Mahatma Gandhi As a volunteer you can learn new skills and connect with the community. Indeed, volunteering can even add joy and health to your life and others. Our April program “Volunteering – Virtual and In-person Opportunities” will feature Eva Hawkins of LVIM and Michelle Shiver of RSVP.

February 9

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs with Barbara Stone covering Guardianships.  Topic:  Guardianship: All You Need To Know   You may view the slideshow:     Guardianship _All you need to know_. 02092021   Below is an additional video you might find interesting:

Getting old should not mean losing control | Nicole Ruggiano | TEDxFIU  LINK

  First Meeting of 2021 – Tuesday, January 12 at 9:00 via Zoom.   Topic: Homelessness in Lakeland
  • Mayor Bill Mutz of Lakeland
  • Ben Stevenson, Executive Director of Lakeland Housing Authority
  • Jeff Bagwell, Director of the Keystone Challenge Fund a nonprofit helping low/mid income families find homes
If you do not routinely receive the meeting notice and wish to participate, send an email to Andy Crossfield at usandy@aol.com for the meeting ID and password.   Please indicate in the subject line “Request for Zoom ID/Password for Rath Center meeting.”

EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2020:

 

JANUARY

January 14

Respite Care –Alice Brown Polk County Aging & Social Service Manager Health & Human Services  

FEBRUARY

February 11

Hailey Aversa, Noah’s Ark of Central Florida   SENIOR SCHOLARS–February 3 through March 16, nine classes.  

MARCH

March 10

SOUL – Senior Organizations Uniting Locally – Barb Cage  

APRIL

April 14

Meeting canceled due to Covid-19  

MAY

May 12

Self Care, Health Care & Benefits during Covid-19 Panel  (Via Zoom)  

JUNE

June 09

Hurricane Preparedness During Covid-19 – Carolyn Bluhm  (Via Zoom)  

JULY

July 14

Dr Joy Jackson, Director, Florida Department of Health for Polk and Hardee County – Covid-19 Summary and Community Call to Action  (Via Zoom)

RATH WEBSITE REDO!!!

 

AUGUST

August 11   

Long Term Care panel of experts “Looking Ahead Right Now” covering various levels of care and costs provided by home care agencies, senior living facilities, skilled nursing centers, and Long Term Care Insurance  (Via Zoom)  

SEPTEMBER

September 8

Learn About LkldNow with our guest speaker, Trinity Laurino, Community Engagement Director   SENIOR SUMMIT—-Stay tuned for 2021!!!  

OCTOBER

October 13

Medicare Open Enrollment Panel of Experts covering 2021 Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medigap (Via Zoom)   SENIOR SCHOLARS—-Stay tuned for 2021!!!  

NOVEMBER

November 10

Christine Samuel, Director of Diversity and Inclusion for City of Winter Haven  (Via Zoom)      

DECEMBER

December 8

Celebrate the Holidays and Recognize our Wonderful Volunteers (via Zoom)

November 9, 2021

Our guest presenters are:

Barb Cage, Program Manager, Senior Wellness Services for Catholic Charities

Barb has been with nonprofits since 1979.  She joined Catholic Charities in 2014.  She was instrumental in the development of mobile services throughout Polk County, including the Lakeland location.

April Sanchez, Nutrition Program Manager for Senior Services, Mid Florida Community Services, Inc.

April is a registered dietitian with a background as a clinical RD working in a rehab center with the aging population.  In April, 2020 she became Mid Florida’s Nutrition Program Manager. 

October 14th, 9:00 AM

Medicare Annual OPEN ENROLLMENT

August 10th, 9:00 AM

Our special guest speaker is:

Vashtie Ragbir-Bhagan 

Adult Protective Investigation Supervisor

Adult Protective Services, DCF

She will cover the services provided to vulnerable adults by Adult Protective Services

June 8th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on June 8th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.  We hope to resume in-person meetings soon and provide Zoom access.

COVID Update:  Dr. Daniel Haight, Lakeland Regional Health

TO VIEW THE RECORDING, CLICK HERE.

May 20, 2021

See the SOUL (Senior Organizations Uniting Locally) Spring flyer below–this organization helps Seniors in our community to meet their needs.  They need your help!!!

Soul Spring Flyer

May 11, 2021

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on May 11th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.

“Communities of Strength” Older Americans Month 2021, Charlotte McHenry, CEO & President, Senior Connection Center

 

April 13, 9:00 AM

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs on April 13th at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.

“The Best Way To Find Yourself Is To Lose Yourself In The Service Of Others.” Mahatma Gandhi

As a volunteer you can learn new skills and connect with the community. Indeed, volunteering can even add joy and health to your life and others. Our April program “Volunteering – Virtual and In-person Opportunities” will feature Eva Hawkins of LVIM and Michelle Shiver of RSVP.

 

February 9

The Rath Center continues its monthly educational programs with Barbara Stone covering Guardianships. 

Topic:  Guardianship: All You Need To Know

 

You may view the slideshow:     Guardianship _All you need to know_. 02092021

 

Below is an additional video you might find interesting:

Getting old should not mean losing control | Nicole Ruggiano | TEDxFIU  LINK

 

First Meeting of 2021 – Tuesday, January 12 at 9:00 via Zoom.

 

Topic: Homelessness in Lakeland

  • Mayor Bill Mutz of Lakeland
  • Ben Stevenson, Executive Director of Lakeland Housing Authority
  • Jeff Bagwell, Director of the Keystone Challenge Fund a nonprofit helping low/mid income families find homes

If you do not routinely receive the meeting notice and wish to participate, send an email to Andy Crossfield at usandy@aol.com for the meeting ID and password.   Please indicate in the subject line “Request for Zoom ID/Password for Rath Center meeting.”

 

 

EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2020:

 

JANUARY

January 14

Respite Care –Alice Brown Polk County Aging & Social Service Manager Health & Human Services

 

FEBRUARY

February 11

Hailey Aversa, Noah’s Ark of Central Florida

 

SENIOR SCHOLARS–February 3 through March 16, nine classes.

 

MARCH

March 10

SOUL – Senior Organizations Uniting Locally – Barb Cage

 

APRIL

April 14

Meeting canceled due to Covid-19

 

MAY

May 12

Self Care, Health Care & Benefits during Covid-19 Panel  (Via Zoom)

 

JUNE

June 09

Hurricane Preparedness During Covid-19 – Carolyn Bluhm  (Via Zoom)

 

JULY

July 14

Dr Joy Jackson, Director, Florida Department of Health for Polk and Hardee County – Covid-19 Summary and Community Call to Action  (Via Zoom)

 

RATH WEBSITE REDO!!!

 

AUGUST

August 11   

Long Term Care panel of experts “Looking Ahead Right Now” covering various levels of care and costs provided by home care agencies, senior living facilities, skilled nursing centers, and Long Term Care Insurance  (Via Zoom)

 

SEPTEMBER

September 8

Learn About LkldNow with our guest speaker, Trinity Laurino, Community Engagement Director

 

SENIOR SUMMIT—-Stay tuned for 2021!!!

 

OCTOBER

October 13

Medicare Open Enrollment Panel of Experts covering 2021 Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medigap (Via Zoom)

 

SENIOR SCHOLARS—-Stay tuned for 2021!!!

 

NOVEMBER

November 10

Christine Samuel, Director of Diversity and Inclusion for City of Winter Haven  (Via Zoom)

 

 

 

DECEMBER

December 8

Celebrate the Holidays and Recognize our Wonderful Volunteers (via Zoom)

EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2022:

(WHEN JOINING A ZOOM MEETING PRESENTATION, PLEASE “MUTE” YOUR AUDIO)

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