
Having the experience to know what makes a difference is one thing; having the opportunity to make a difference is another. The Third Age Initiative™ enables older/retirement-aged people to have the opportunity to channel their wisdom and experience in ways that give back to the community. Since the program began, about 400 older adults have brought their unique socioeconomic, ethnic, educational, and cultural perspectives to the group.
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"Since my year in the Third Age Initiative, I've increased my activities, and at times have stepped out of my "comfort zone" and discovered that that it's actually pretty comfortable! My TAI year gave me new insights into relationships, helped me find strengths in others and give them the opportunity and encouragement to make the most of those strengths. And those I work/play with have raised my awareness and enhanced my own skills."
Third Age Initiative™ participants share experiences during workshops and a retreat, and work collaboratively to create community action projects. More than three dozen team projects have addressed issues such as children’s literacy, hunger, arts and heritage education, inter-generational mentoring, neighborhood redevelopment, reentry of formerly incarcerated into the community, financial literacy, and more.
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"This past year has been the best year of my life! I had never imagined that I would have an opportunity to be a part of such an important and meaningful endeavor--collaborating with people of the highest caliber and moral fiber to help improve the lives of others--especially for a city that I have come to love and appreciate over the last 42 years."
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"I had planned to “do nothing” for at least a year after my retirement, but that was not meant to be. The Third Age Initiative was a way to transition from my work life to what was going to be my next adventure. What I found was so many wonderful people doing so many inspiring things. And I was moved to help change how we, as a state and as a nation, think about criminal justice and our citizens. I will continue to explore my part in that movement."
Term: 12 months
Target: Retirees
Cost: Funded by sponsors, grants and donations
Application Deadline: Two weeks prior to program start
Class 16
Program Dates:
April 2022-April 2023
April 7-May 26:
Thursdays 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Weekly workshops
June 2022-April 2023:
Team meetings to plan and implement community projects plus bi-monthly class meetings
Bi-monthly workshops:
9:30 a.m.- noon
July 14, Sept. 8, Nov. 10,
Jan. 26, Mar. 9
April 20, 2023:
Graduation
Workshops and team meetings
Will be virtual or in person,
following health and safety
guidelines
Doe Hentschel
Leadership Preceptor
860.206.5064
doe.hentschel@leadershipgh.org