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The Community Connection at the Sealy Center on AgingStay Connected. Stay Engaged. Stay Inspired.

Welcome

At the Sealy Center on Aging, we believe that growing older should mean growing stronger, through knowledge, community, and meaningful opportunities. That’s why we created the Community Connection, a program designed to keep older adults in Galveston County informed, engaged, and empowered.

Launched in 2022, the Community Connection has more than 1,300 subscribers who receive our quarterly newsletter by email or traditional mail. Each issue is filled with valuable updates, including:

  • Spotlights on groundbreaking aging research at UTMB Health
  • Invitations to participate in clinical studies that can improve health and wellbeing for older adults everywhere
  • Local events and programs tailored to seniors in our community
  • Volunteer opportunities, such as AmeriCorps Seniors, where you can give back and stay active

Why Join?

The Community Connection is more than a newsletter! It’s a way to stay plugged into the latest discoveries, connect with people who share your interests, and find new ways to stay involved in your local community.

We're Growing, Together!

Thanks to strong community partnerships and outreach, the Community Connection is expanding every day. Whether you hear about us through a senior center, social media, or a postcard at an event, the invitation is the same: be part of a growing network of older adults shaping the future of aging in Galveston County.

  • Sign up for the Community Connection newsletter and become part of a vibrant community of older adults making a difference.
  • Follow and engage with us on Facebook, where we share news and resources as well as event announcements that are relevant to local older adults.
  • Learn more about getting involved with AmeriCorps Seniors.
  • Visit the Learning Center, now located at the Osher Long Life Institute at UTMB Health

Newsletter Archive

Current Studies

News from the Sealy Center on Aging

photo collage of older adults at camp, fishing and enjoying one another's company

Thanks for a Successful 21st Annual Abundant Living Conference

Apr 5, 2024, 08:54 AM by SCOA

 

The 21st Abundant Living Conference was held from March 25 to 27, 2024, at the beautiful Camp Allen in Navasota. Whether you are 8 or 80, there is fun to be had and friends to be made at camp! Thank you to our incredible doctors, clergy and workshop leaders along with support from the Episcopal Seniors Foundation and The Guild Shop that made this experience possible. Older adults have had the opportunity to attend this fun and informative event for more than 20 years. Thanks to the many contributors.

The theme of "Joyful Living" was evident as over 100 attendees were inspired by presentations and experiences emphasizing the importance of joy and happiness. Participants connected with nature through outdoor activities and enjoyed musical fun and fellowship during social hours.

This year’s speakers included:

  • Dr. Jim Goodwin: "Demystifying Dementia"
  • Dr. Jean Goodwin: "Farewell to a Beloved Office"
  • Dr. Samuel Mathis: "Joy as Medicine"
  • Ramona Benton: "Finding Joy in the Hard Stuff"
  • Rev. Lacy Largent: "Experiencing Joy in the Midst of Suffering"
  • Angel Hanzik: "Don’t Let the Scammers Steal Your Joy (or Your Money)"
  • Rev. Francene Young: "Shield and Share Your Joy"

Morning reflections and night prayers were offered by Fr. Peter Funk and Br. Michael Gallagher. George Dehan, former director of Camp Allen, wrapped up the event with a slide show and parting thoughts on keeping joy in our lives throughout the year.

While Abundant Living will continue as an annual event at Camp Allen, the Sealy Center on Aging bid a bittersweet farewell to future involvement with the conference. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide this unique gathering and hope you will continue visiting the piney woods in Navasota at the special place we call Camp Allen.

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