Explanation
This ordinance authorizes Columbus City Council to enter into a grant agreement with the Greater Hilltop Shalom Zone in support of the Greater Columbus Network of Villages.
The Greater Columbus Network of Villages (GCNV) comprises three Village programs serving distinct areas of Columbus. Village Connections (VC) began taking members in 2014, Village in the Ville (VitV) in 2015, and At Home By High (AHBH) in 2018. Each of these programs utilizes a member-driven, strengths-based model focused on developing a mutually supportive network for successful and healthy aging-in-community. The programs serve neighbors age 50 and over.
As the older adult population grows, there is a need for innovative approaches to service delivery. The Greater Hilltop Shalom Zone has a solid history of providing traditional programs to serve older adults including case management, financial management, and transportation. This money will be used to expand the Village network into the Greater Hilltop community.
It can be difficult to hire professionals for “small jobs,” such as unclogging a downspout or replacing furnace filters. These may seem like small tasks, but they can have a big impact on an older adult’s quality of life. Village members also have peace of mind when receiving services through neighborhood volunteers. The Village programs provide older adults with substantial savings compared to market rate services. In an average month, members benefit from $1,500 worth of volunteer service.
The Village Movement approach to aging is successful not only to ensure that older adults are able to age in their homes, but also in community. This movement fosters interdependence between neighbors that supports aging members, in addition to honoring the contributions of younger members. Older adults participating in these programs will experience a more connected way of life, whether they are a recipient of services, a provider, or both. In order to generate a strong sense...
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