$380K state grant will bolster Evergreen Commons programs

Before the pandemic, one in four people aged 65 and older experienced social isolation, putting them at a greater risk of loneliness, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. These feelings of loneliness were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Evergreen Commons has been awarded a $380,000 grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund for initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Evergreen members, Day Center participants, and the community.

Evergreen Commons plans to address this yearning for community and wellness with the help of a $380,000 grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund. The money will support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Evergreen members, Day Center participants, and the community.

"The center of the target for us is disrupting the way people age,” says Jill Ver Steeg, president/CEO of Evergreen Commons, “With this generous grant, we will increase our impact on cognitive health, food and metabolism, and increase our innovative programming focused on Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.”

The Holland center for older adults is developing a new, web-based information hub, Brain Works and Alzheimer’s programming, and a social/hospitality zone featuring a new dietitian. The program is designed to break down barriers to wellness and belonging. 

“The hub will be the center of gravity for older adult resources that will strengthen the collaboration with our partners,”  Ver Steeg says.

Before the pandemic, 1 in 4 people aged 65 and older experienced social isolation. These feelings of loneliness were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The nonprofit plans to celebrate the grant with leaders of the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, the Evergreen Commons board of directors and leadership team, and community leaders and members on Dec. 11 at 3 p.m. at its Holland facility, 480 State St.

“We are excited about the transformation of these initiatives incorporating nutrition, cognitive stimulation, vital information access, and community collaboration leading to improved overall health and well-being, enhanced cognitive function and mental agility, increased access to resources, and strong support networks leading to a more vibrant and inclusive aging community,” Ver Steeg says.