Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center
Presented
Margaret Xanthopoulos
MS Xanthopoulos gave a very informative and detailed talk on the advantages of Palliative and Hospice care.
Tuesday, February 14, 2023, 9:00 AM
Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center
Presents
Michelle Shiver
Success and the Senior Volunteer
Michelle Shiver, CVA, is the RSVP Polk Coordinator for the Polk County Board of County Commissioners.
Monthly Educational Meeting
9:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2023
In 2012 Michelle attained her CVA (Certified Volunteer Administrator) credential from the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration by demonstrating she has a clear philosophy volunteer administration, pledges to work within a professional code of ethics, and demonstrates her clear knowledge in the core competency areas of organizational management, human resource management, accountability, leadership, and advocacy. She has over 20 years of experience in volunteer management and 40+ years of experience as a volunteer.
Michelle is a Polk County native and holds a Master of Music degree in Bassoon Performance from Louisiana State University. She has performed professionally throughout the Tampa Bay area and is a former adjunct music faculty member at Florida Southern College.
Michelle is currently serving as the Vice President of the Board for Rath Senior ConNEXTions center and as the Parliamentarian for the Florida Senior Corps Association. She is a past secretary for Better Living for Seniors.
This meeting will be held at the Rath office located at College Heights United Methodist Church, 934 South Boulevard, Lakeland, FL 33803.
Tuesday, January 10, 2023, 9:00 AM
Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center
Presents
Nicole Ramer
We are fortunate to have a presentation from Nicole Ramer, Certified Move Manager and founder of Organized Haven. She will integrate psychological concepts of organization with the losses and changes which occur during the aging process. “Downsizing” is a psychological challenge for seniors, and we will be enlightened with Nicole’s strategies.
This meeting will be held at the Rath office located at College Heights United Methodist Church, 934 South Boulevard, Lakeland, FL 33803.
Tuesday, December 13, 2022, 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 13th meeting at 10 A.M. We will have an Open House and Holiday Celebration at our new location. Our office and classroom are located at College Heights United Methodist Church. This yearly event will honor the Rath Center team for their service to the community for two years during the Pandemic. We invite you to join us for this festive celebration while remembering the challenges we shared during these times. This meeting will be held at the Rath office located at College Heights United Methodist Church, 934 South Boulevard, Lakeland, FL 33803.
As we say a special Thank you to our outgoing officers, Andy Crossfield, Gail Bagley, and Jean Berken, we have only gratitude and praise. They served two terms with passion and dedication to our community. During challenging times, they lead the Rath Center. During the pandemic they presided giving Covid-19 information and support. They lead the team during a move to our new office location, while ensuring continued collaboration with Catholic Charities and other partners in senior services.
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, SR, Housing Administrative Supervisor, Polk County Housing and Neighborhood Development Presentation HERE
View the PowerPoint Presentation HERE
Brian Rewis, Director 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 ServicesJune 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 CenterApril 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
EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2020:
JANUARY
January 14
Respite Care –Alice Brown Polk County Aging & Social Service Manager Health & Human ServicesFEBRUARY
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 CageAPRIL
April 14
Meeting canceled due to Covid-19MAY
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 ServicesJune 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 CenterApril 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
EVENTS IN OUR AREA, 2020:
JANUARY
January 14
Respite Care –Alice Brown Polk County Aging & Social Service Manager Health & Human ServicesFEBRUARY
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 CageAPRIL
April 14
Meeting canceled due to Covid-19MAY
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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