Category: News

Sage Advice®

« back
09.18.25 | Caregiver Support

Q&A with Olivia Matongo, Alzheimer’s Association® on Brain Health, Equity, and Community

Sage Collective® and the Alzheimer’s Association® share a powerful common ground: helping older adults live vibrantly with knowledge, connection, and care. Ahead of our Facebook Live conversation with Olivia Matongo, Vice President of the Alzheimer’s Association® Illinois Chapter on September 23, 2025 at 7:00PM CT, we sat down with Olivia about a number of subjects, including how to make brain-healthy living more accessible, equitable, and actionable for our community.

In your role, what does a “good day” look like—and who benefits most from your work?
My team leads community outreach and engagement—we’re the ones executing the mission in the field. That means raising awareness about the disease and about our resources, building relationships with community leaders and organizations, and making sure people who are struggling can access care and support.

How did the relationship with Sage Collective® come to be?
We met at a community meeting and started talking about ways to partner. After follow-up conversations, we landed on doing a session focused on brain health—sharing who we are, what we do, and how we can support Sage Collective®’s community.

Many people ask how to distinguish normal, age-related memory lapses from early warning signs of Alzheimer’s. How do you explain the difference?
Normal aging isn’t disruptive—you might occasionally forget something and then remember it later. Dementia involves memory loss that interferes with daily life, like getting lost on a familiar route or struggling with tasks you used to manage easily. It affects the individual and those around them as loved ones notice changes and step in with more support.

We’re hearing more about new blood tests entering the diagnostic toolkit. What should families know?
Diagnosis is never one single test—clinicians use a number of tools in the diagnostic process, including cognitive and behavioral assessments. Blood-based tools are emerging to help detect biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s, which can make the path to answers less invasive and help families plan and prepare sooner in consultation with their clinicians.

What daily habits do you encourage for better brain health?
At the Alzheimer’s Association®, our public health team recently launched “10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain” grounded in research. Highlights include moving your body, not smoking, managing blood pressure and diabetes, getting enough sleep, keeping your brain learning new things, and following the MIND diet (leafy greens, berries, nuts, lean proteins, and less butter, cheese, and red meat). Doing several of these together can meaningfully reduce risk over time.

Sage Collective®’s “9 Ways of Vibrant Living” align closely with your recommendations.
Exactly. Engagement and purpose are powerful. When partners like Sage Collective®help us reach people with practical, everyday ways to take care of brain and body, the impact multiplies.

How is the Alzheimer’s Association® building trust and access in communities that have been underserved?
We’ve invested for years in focused DEI efforts—partnering with organizations already rooted in Black, Brown, and rural communities. In Chicago, for example, we co-create annual conferences with community planning committees—one on the South Side centered on African American communities and one on the West Side centered on Hispanic communities—so that education, resources, and support truly reflect community needs.

What does a strong partnership with Sage Collective® look like to you?
Access and trust. Being invited in to educate and support your community is huge—and it’s reciprocal. We also ask, “How can we serve Sage Collective®’s goals?” As our organizations continue talking, the partnership can evolve in ways that make sense for both missions.

Join us live
Don’t miss our Facebook Live with the Sage Collective® team and Olivia Matongo from the Alzheimer’s Association®, taking place on Tuesday, September 23rd at 7 PM CT/8 PM ET. We’ll dig deeper into early signs, new diagnostic tools, everyday prevention, and community resources. Bring your questions—and invite a friend or care partner. Go to the Sage Collective® website to reserve your spot!

 

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
03.27.25 | Sage Advice®

Moving Forward Together: An Interview with Mayor Janet Lynch Gerald for Women’s History Month 2025

At Sage Collective®, we believe that education, leadership, and community empowerment are the cornerstones of vibrant living. Our commitment to sharing powerful stories aligns with this year’s Women’s History Month theme: Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations. By highlighting the journeys of extraordinary women, we celebrate their contributions and inspire future generations to lead with purpose and passion.

One such leader is Janet Lynch Gerald, Mayor of Kingstown, North Carolina. A visionary public servant, educator, and trailblazer, Mayor Gerald has dedicated her career to uplifting her community, fostering education, and leading with compassion. Her path from the corporate world to public office is a testament to the power of resilience, service, and a commitment to progress. In this exclusive Sage Advice® interview, Mayor Gerald shares insights into her journey, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her vision for the future.

From Science to Public Service: A Trailblazer’s Journey
Mayor Gerald, your career has spanned multiple fields—from science and corporate leadership to education and now public service. What inspired you to take such a dynamic and diverse path?

“I’ve always known that my calling in life was that of a ‘servant leader.’ Even at a very young age, growing up in rural North Carolina in dire circumstances, I found solace in learning and sharing what I learned. I have always been passionate about helping others, and that passion has guided me through every chapter of my career—whether in corporate leadership, education, or public service.”

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Generations
You were the first African American to serve as Administrator of the Corporate Corrective Action Program at Progress Energy. What challenges did you face in that role, and how did you overcome them?

“One of the biggest challenges was introducing the program to people who did not share the same culture or background as the program itself. Gaining their trust and helping them understand the benefits of the program was a hurdle. However, I was fortunate to have the strong support of Senior Management, who reinforced their faith in me and helped drive the program forward. That experience taught me the power of persistence, leadership, and the importance of earning trust through transparency and results.”

Public Service and Building Stronger Communities
What motivated you to run for public office, and what has been the most rewarding part of serving as Mayor?

“After taking early retirement in 2005, I returned home to open a learning center. I have always wanted to help children develop and excel, regardless of their abilities or limitations. Seeing a child go from failing to making the honor roll was incredibly rewarding.

“As I started attending Town Council meetings, I saw issues that weren’t being addressed properly. Rather than complain, I decided to become part of the solution. I was elected to the Town Council in 2017 and later selected as Mayor Pro-Tem and Finance Director. In 2020, when the Local Government Commission seized control of the town’s finances and the mayor resigned, I was appointed to fill the role. I was then officially elected Mayor in 2021.

“Since then, we’ve made tremendous progress. We regained control of the town’s finances, upgraded our town park, and opened a Virtual Health Care Center to improve healthcare access. We also secured a $2.62 million grant for our sewer system upgrades and implemented a town-wide text alert system to keep residents informed. I also started a Community Task Force to give citizens a voice in prioritizing the town’s needs. Keeping the community involved is critical for long-term progress.”

The Power of Women in Leadership
This year’s Women’s History Month theme focuses on educating and inspiring the next generation. What advice do you have for young women who aspire to lead in their communities?

“I encourage young women to get involved—attend meetings, volunteer, and learn about what’s happening in their communities. Let that involvement guide you to where you can make the most impact. Everyone has something valuable to contribute, and no one should let fear or discouragement stop them from stepping up to lead.”

Legacy and the Future
Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave behind as Mayor, and what are your hopes for the future of Kingstown?

“Kingstown holds a unique place in history as the first— and possibly still the only— town in America named in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Just as Dr. King envisioned a society built on equality and justice, I want my legacy to reflect service, care, and compassion for this community. I hope to see Kingstown continue to flourish and prosper, always upholding the values on which it was founded.”

Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Service
You are celebrating your 50th year as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. What has this milestone meant to you?

“Being a part of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for 50 years is an honor. Our sorority is deeply rooted in service and sisterhood, and we have a saying: ‘Service is the rent we pay to be an AKA.’ The values of AKA have shaped my approach to leadership and strengthened my commitment to servant leadership in every aspect of my life. It has been a journey of growth, impact, and unwavering dedication to making a difference.”

Moving Forward Together
Mayor Janet Lynch Gerald is a shining example of the power of leadership, resilience, and community engagement. Her journey from corporate leadership to education and public service serves as an inspiration to all—especially to young women looking to make an impact.

At Sage Collective®, we are proud to share her story during Women’s History Month 2025 and celebrate the women who are moving forward together—educating, inspiring, and leading the way for future generations.

Join us in honoring Mayor Gerald and the many women making a difference in their communities.

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
03.20.25 | News

Protecting Your Finances: How Older Adults Can Avoid Financial Scams

In an era of digital transactions, phone-based fraud, and increasingly sophisticated scams, financial security is more critical than ever—especially for older adults, who are often targeted by fraudsters. Scammers take advantage of trust, technology gaps, and even personal vulnerabilities to deceive individuals into giving away their money or sensitive information.

At Sage Collective®, we believe that financial security is a cornerstone of vibrant living, allowing older adults to thrive without the stress of fraud or financial loss. In our latest season of Sage Vibrant Living — The Podcast, we discuss the importance of financial literacy and protecting oneself from scams that disproportionately impact older adults. Here, we break down key strategies to safeguard your finances and recognize potential fraud before it happens.

Common Scams Targeting Older Adults
Scammers have become more creative in their methods, using both old and new tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals. Some of the most common scams include:

Impersonation Scams. Scammers may pose as trusted institutions—such as banks, Social Security offices, or even family members—to manipulate victims into providing personal information. These scams often happen over the phone, email, or even text messages.

🔹 How to Spot It:

  • Unsolicited calls or emails asking for personal details like Social Security numbers, bank account information, or passwords.
  • Urgent language such as “act now or lose your benefits.”
  • Caller ID that appears legitimate but isn’t (always verify before responding).

🔹 How to Protect Yourself:

  • Never give out personal or banking information over the phone unless you initiated the call.
  • Hang up and call the institution directly to verify the request.
  • If a family member calls asking for money, verify with another relative before taking action.

Lottery & Sweepstakes Scams. Many scams claim that the recipient has won money or a prize—but must first pay a fee or provide sensitive financial details to claim their winnings.

🔹 How to Spot It:

  • Requests for upfront payments or “taxes” before you can receive a prize.
  • Notifications from contests you never entered.
  • Claims that your “winnings” must be kept secret.

🔹 How to Protect Yourself:

  • If you didn’t enter a contest, you didn’t win one.
  • Never send money, gift cards, or wire transfers to claim a prize.
  • Consult a trusted friend or family member before responding.

Tech Support & Remote Access Scams. Scammers claim there’s a virus or problem with your computer, phone, or bank account. They may ask you to download software or give them remote access to fix the issue.

🔹 How to Spot It:

  • Unsolicited calls from “tech support” warning about a computer virus.
  • Pop-ups that lock your screen and demand immediate action.
  • Requests to download unknown software or allow remote access.

🔹 How to Protect Yourself:

  • Never give remote access to your devices unless you initiated a call to a verified tech service.
  • Ignore pop-ups urging immediate action and restart your computer instead.
  • Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication for extra security.

Smart Financial Habits to Stay Safe

🔹 Monitor Your Accounts:
 Regularly check bank statements, credit card transactions, and credit reports to spot unauthorized activity early.

🔹 Use Strong & Unique Passwords:
 Create complex passwords for banking and shopping sites. Avoid using birthdays or easy-to-guess phrases.

🔹 Stay Updated on Scams:
 Scammers evolve their tactics. Stay informed by following updates from AARP Fraud Watch Network, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or local consumer protection agencies.

🔹 Talk Openly About Fraud:
 Discuss scam prevention strategies with friends, family, and community members—especially those who may be more vulnerable to fraud.

🔹 Report Scams Immediately:
 If you suspect fraud, report it to:
📌 FTC (Federal Trade Commission) → reportfraud.ftc.gov
📌 AARP Fraud Watch Helpline → 877-908-3360
📌 Local law enforcement or bank if financial information was compromised.

Empowering Older Adults Through Awareness
At Sage Collective®, we believe that financial independence and security are essential for living vibrantly. By staying informed and implementing protective measures, older African Americans can safeguard their assets and avoid falling victim to scams.

Financial fraud is not just about money—it’s about peace of mind, dignity, and confidence in managing your financial future. Let’s work together to spread awareness and protect one another from scams.

Tune in to our latest podcast episode on financial security for more insights! 🎧

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
03.13.25 | Lifestyle

Launching the Sage Collective® Caregiver Support Program: A Lifeline for Those Who Care

Caregiving is an act of love, resilience, and dedication—but it can also be overwhelming. Many caregivers, especially those in underserved communities, find themselves navigating immense physical, emotional, and financial challenges with little support. Recognizing this, Sage Collective® is proud to launch the Caregiver Support Program, an initiative dedicated to empowering and uplifting caregivers through education, community, and self-care.

A Program Built for Caregivers
At Sage Collective, we understand that caregiving doesn’t come with an instruction manual. From managing a loved one’s medical needs to balancing work and personal responsibilities, caregivers often carry an invisible yet significant burden. The Sage Collective Caregiver Support Program is designed to provide the resources, tools, and emotional support caregivers need to thrive—not just survive—in their roles.

This program offers:

  • Educational workshops on caregiving techniques, stress management, and self-care
  • Support groups facilitated by professionals, providing a safe space for sharing experiences and advice
  • Access to community resources like healthcare services, respite care, and financial planning
  • Online forums and virtual support to ensure accessibility for all caregivers, no matter their location or schedule
  • Advocacy efforts aimed at influencing policy changes that benefit caregivers, particularly African American caregivers who play a vital role in family and community care

Through this holistic approach, caregivers gain the tools they need to provide the best care for their loved ones while also prioritizing their own well-being.

Join Us for the Caregiver Support Program Launch Event
To celebrate this new initiative, we invite you to our official launch event on March 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM. This evening will focus on Navigating the Emotional Challenges of Caregiving—a crucial conversation that acknowledges the stress, guilt, and exhaustion many caregivers experience.

Featured Speaker: Dr. Genevieve Thomas. Dr. Thomas will lead a discussion on how to manage the emotional weight of caregiving, offering strategies for building resilience, reducing stress, and maintaining a sense of self amid caregiving responsibilities.

Guided Meditation & Yoga Session: Maile Wicklander. To help caregivers reconnect with themselves, certified yoga and meditation instructor Maile Wicklander will guide a low-impact yoga and mindfulness session, providing techniques for relaxation and stress relief.

This free event is open to caregivers, family members, and anyone supporting a loved one through aging or illness. Attendees will leave with practical tools to improve their well-being and a stronger sense of community.

Why Caregivers Need Support Now More Than Ever
Caregiving can be isolating. Many caregivers report feeling overwhelmed, underappreciated, and stretched thin, often neglecting their own needs. Studies show that caregivers are at higher risk for stress-related illnesses, anxiety, and depression, yet many don’t seek support because they feel they “should” be able to handle it all alone.

At Sage Collective®, we believe no caregiver should have to navigate this journey alone. By offering access to community, expert guidance, and wellness practices, we are building a stronger, healthier network of caregivers who feel supported, informed, and valued.

Be Part of This Transformative Movement
If you are a caregiver—or know someone who is—this program is for you. Whether you attend workshops, join a support group, or take part in online discussions, you’ll gain the tools, confidence, and community you need to navigate caregiving with strength and grace.

Connect with fellow caregivers who understand your experiences. Gain valuable insights and strategies to help reduce stress and avoid burnout. Together, we can redefine what it means to care—not just for others, but for ourselves.

RSVP today to secure your spot for the launch event on March 18, 2025.
Visit our website for more details on Sage Collective’s Caregiver Support Program.

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
11.28.24 | Community

Giving Tuesday: A Day of Generosity and Impact

Every year, following the Thanksgiving holiday, people worldwide come together to participate in Giving Tuesday, a global movement of generosity that transforms communities and lives. Taking place on December 3 this year, Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to make a difference, no matter how big or small our contributions. At Sage Collective®, we embrace this day as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of giving and how it aligns with our mission of fostering vibrant, connected communities for older African Americans. And this year, we are focusing on expanding our Vibrant Learning Program to older adults in the Chicagoland area.

The Spirit of Giving
Giving Tuesday was established in 2012 as a response to the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Instead of focusing on what we can acquire, this day shifts the narrative toward what we can give back. Whether through monetary donations, volunteering time, or sharing skills, Giving Tuesday encourages everyone to play a role in building stronger, more supportive communities.

For Sage Collective, the essence of Giving Tuesday resonates deeply with our commitment to enhancing the lives of older African Americans. Many of the challenges faced by older adults—including social isolation, financial insecurity, and limited access to resources—can be addressed through collective generosity. When we give, we not only uplift individuals but also contribute to the creation of healthier, more equitable communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Why Giving Tuesday Matters
Giving Tuesday is more than a single day of giving—it’s a call to action that inspires year-round generosity. For African American seniors, who often face systemic inequities in healthcare, housing, and financial security, this movement is particularly impactful. It sheds light on the importance of supporting programs and initiatives that address these disparities and provide older adults with opportunities to live vibrant, fulfilling lives.

The act of giving also benefits the giver. Studies show that generosity boosts mental and emotional well-being, creating a sense of purpose and connection. For older adults, participating in Giving Tuesday—whether by contributing to a cause or volunteering—can enhance social engagement and foster a deeper sense of community. It’s a reminder that everyone has something valuable to offer, regardless of age or circumstance.

How You Can Get Involved
There are countless ways to participate in Giving Tuesday and make a difference in the lives of older adults:

  • Donate: Consider contributing to Sage Collective to support our focus on improving the well-being of African American seniors. Your financial support can help fund programs that promote mental, physical, and emotional health.
  • Volunteer: Offer your time to local organizations or community initiatives that serve older adults. From hosting workshops to delivering meals, every action counts.
  • Spread the Word: Use your voice to amplify Sage Collective’s mission. Sharing information on social media or within your networks can inspire others to join the movement.
  • Start a Giving Tradition: Engage your family, friends, or colleagues in collective giving. Whether through a fundraiser, donation drive, or community project, working together multiplies your impact.

At Sage Collective, we encourage you to think about how your contributions—whether large or small—can create lasting change. Your generosity helps us build a future where older African Americans can access the resources, connections, and opportunities they need to thrive.

A Future Rooted in Generosity
As Giving Tuesday approaches, we invite you to reflect on the power of giving and the role it plays in creating vibrant, inclusive communities. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or simply spread the message, your actions make a difference. Together, we can honor the spirit of generosity that defines Giving Tuesday and build a brighter, more equitable future for all.

This December 3, let’s come together to celebrate the joy of giving and the impact it can have on our communities. At Sage Collective, we’re proud to be part of this global movement, and we’re grateful for everyone who joins us in supporting older African Americans and their caregivers. Your generosity ensures that vibrant living is not just a possibility but a reality for generations to come.

Participants in Sage Collective® Vibrant Learning programs at Chicago Commons
› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
12.28.23 | Community

2023: A Year in Review

As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, we at Sage Collective are thrilled to share the highlights of 2023, a year marked by innovation, growth, and deeper connections within our community.

Continued Success of the Vibrant Learning Program

Our journey with the Vibrant Learning Program, in collaboration with Chicago Commons, has flourished throughout 2023. This year, we’ve deepened our relationship with the community, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of learning and engagement. From exploring the intricacies of new technologies to delving into diverse cultures, our program participants have embarked on an enriching journey.

Themes of tradition, storytelling, family connection, and freedom have remained at the heart of our curriculum. Our activities, including armchair travel and digital painting, have not only been educational but also immensely enjoyable, fostering a sense of joy and wonder among all participants.

Expanding Our Horizons

2023 was a milestone year for Sage Collective as we embraced innovative ways to connect with our audience. One of our most exciting initiatives was the integration of Facebook Live into our communication strategy. This platform allowed us to reach new digital audiences and strengthen ties with our existing community.

Our Facebook Live sessions, focusing on updates about Sage Collective’s activities, healthy eating discussions, and more, garnered significant engagement. The enthusiastic response from our audience has been truly inspiring, and we eagerly anticipate continuing these interactive sessions in the coming year.

Looking Ahead: The Vibrant Living Podcast

In our constant effort to innovate and inspire, we are excited to announce the upcoming launch of our ‘Vibrant Living Podcast’ in the new year. Building on the themes explored in our Sage Advice blog, this podcast will dive deeper into the power of storytelling. We believe that stories have the ability to connect, heal, and empower, and our podcast will be a testament to this belief. Stay tuned for this exciting new venture!

As we reflect on the year gone by, we feel immense gratitude for the continued support and enthusiasm of our community. The journey of Sage Collective is one of continuous learning and growth, and we can’t wait to see what the new year brings. Here’s to a vibrant and fulfilling 2024!

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
11.02.23 | Sage Advice®

November is National Family Caregivers Month

November is often associated with Thanksgiving, a time to express gratitude and come together as families. But the month also holds a special significance for family caregivers. Welcome to National Family Caregivers Month – a period dedicated to acknowledging the silent heroes among us who dedicate their lives to caring for loved ones.

What started as National Family Caregivers Week in the mid-1990s has since evolved, thanks to President Barack Obama’s proclamation in 2012, into a month-long tribute. This expansion wasn’t just a mere extension of time but rather a recognition of the year-round efforts these caregivers undertake. 

While showing appreciation is a crucial aspect of this month, its scope goes beyond acknowledgment. The aim is to rally support for caregivers, raise awareness about the challenges they face, and provide them with vital resources. The Caregivers Action Network (CAN), for instance, introduces a theme each year. This year’s theme is #CaregiversConnect, which spotlights the importance of connections as a way to educate and support others. 

By shining a light on the hardships and trials caregivers endure, we pave the way for better policies, resources, and societal understanding. Whether it’s lobbying for better workplace support, highlighting the emotional strain, or emphasizing the financial toll of caregiving, the advocacy element of this month is pivotal.

As individuals, there’s much we can do. From offering to babysit, assisting with chores, or merely lending an empathetic ear, every bit helps. Community groups and local initiatives can also play a role, perhaps by setting up support forums or offering respite care services. The strength of a community lies in its unity, and together, we can ensure our caregivers feel seen, supported, and valued.

As you move through November, take a moment to think about the caregivers in your life. They might be neighbors, friends, or even family members. While their sacrifices often go unnoticed, this month serves as a reminder of the immeasurable value they bring to our communities and lives. 

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
06.22.23 | News

Juneteenth: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Present, Envisioning a Vibrant Future

In the spirit of learning and understanding that fuels the Sage Collective, we’re delving into a significant moment in our shared American history, a moment that anchors us to our past as it guides us towards a more inclusive future – Juneteenth.

The essence of Juneteenth is one of freedom and liberation, dating back to 1863 when the Emancipation Proclamation declared enslaved African Americans free. The truth of this newfound freedom, however, took two years to permeate every state, with Texas being the last to hear the news. Hence, Juneteenth was born, officially recognized by President Joe Biden on June 17, 2021.

The celebration of Juneteenth, while filled with joy and reverence for the resilience of freedmen and freedwomen, was not devoid of strife. However, the spirit of determination and unity endured. By pooling resources, formerly enslaved people bought land in 1950, creating Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas, a testament to their collective resilience and a place for future Juneteenth celebrations.

The Juneteenth flag, designed by Ms. L.J. Graff, embodies this shared history and vision. Its colors echo the American flag, asserting the rightful place of freed people and their descendants as American citizens. The central star pays homage to Texas, while the bursting new star symbolizes a new dawn and new freedom.

As we honor Juneteenth, we also acknowledge the complex emotions that accompany this day of celebration. The weight of history can bring feelings of anxiety and stress, emotions we at Sage Collective encourage our members to acknowledge and discuss. We are committed to creating a safe space for these dialogues, believing that understanding our past is a crucial step toward shaping a vibrant and inclusive future.

Juneteenth, much like our mission at Sage Collective, is about embracing freedom and fostering vibrant living for all. It reminds us that freedom is also about the liberation of the mind and spirit. It’s about the courage to acknowledge the pain of our past, the determination to celebrate the progress of our present, and the vision to foster a future of justice, inclusivity, and vibrant living for everyone.

Join us as we commemorate Juneteenth this month and every month, and let its history and values inspire us as we continue to work towards a future where everyone can live vibrantly.

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
12.29.22 | Community

2022: A Year in Review

2022 was a year of growth for Sage Collective as we continued evolving and celebrating exciting milestones. Today, we’re reflecting on the past year and sharing our proudest achievements:

Vibrant Learning Program

Throughout 2022, we were able to continue strengthening our close relationship with Chicago Commons, another long-standing trailblazer for change in the community. Building upon our past work, we excitedly launched our Vibrant Learning Program with Chicago Commons Adult Day Services in late February, which continues to be a resounding success. 

For the past eight months, our team has had the privilege to get to know program participants and help grow their understanding of everything from new technology to different cultures. Learning themes touched on traditions, storytelling, family connection and freedom, and engaging activities included armchair travel and digital painting. 

Expanding Our Team

Along with the launch of our programming, we warmly welcomed new team members throughout the year. Leading the Vibrant Living Program, DeShunn Bray brought with her an impressive passion for forming rich connections with others and making a significant impact on the communities in which she interacts as our Manager of Programming and Community Engagement. Her amazing energy is something both our team and the participants in our Vibrant Living Program cherish. 

We also welcomed Camille Love as one of our newest Board Members. The transition of long-time member Angela Higginbotham from our Board created such an opportunity for Camille and added to the related expertise of Sage Collective as it pursues ways of encouraging the adoption of healthier lifestyle choices among older adults in underserved communities. 

We can’t wait to continue sharing this journey with you and see what 2023 brings!

› Back to top

Sage Advice®

« back
08.25.22 | News

Introducing Our Newest Team Member, DeShunn Bray

With an impressive passion for forming rich connections with others and making significant impact on the communities in which she interacts, DeShunn Bray has always been a catalyst in her field. From working as the former site manager at Willa Rawls Manor to various security and programming roles, her extensive experience and radiating energy made her the perfect candidate to lead our Vibrant Learning Program at Chicago Commons. We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce DeShunn as the newest addition to the Sage Collective team. Get to know DeShunn in her introduction below: 

Can you talk a little bit about your professional background and how it has made you an expert in your field?

I have over 20 years of experience working with seniors and managing senior properties. I’m also a certified manager of senior housing, so with that has come other responsibilities of managing and securing properties. Not only was I managing one-on-one meetings with clients, but I also had a chance to discover their needs. One of my key responsibilities was making sure that everyone has a healthy, clean environment that helps them live more independently. So as a result, I was also responsible for helping provide services that would enhance their living space and every aspect of their quality of life.

What is your role with Sage Collective and our pilot program at Chicago Commons?

My title is Manager of Programming and Community Engagement. So when I walk into an assisted living program, or any program that deals with housing or providing a service with senior citizens, I make sure I come in with my “arsenal” — some excellent references and connections to vibrant living. I ensure that Sage Collective has the resources to carry out the different programs that we provide, including putting together an outline to touch on themes such as health, wellness, culture and arts. 

By tapping into that good vibe that we possess at Sage Collective, I also help our participants believe that life hasn’t ended and that every day is a great day. So when our participants’ family and friends see them thriving, it’s a way for them to say, “This is what I still like to do. I’m just a little older, but I am still the same person.’’ Through the programing, participants gain the ability to say with assurance what they need and I’m elated to provide them with that type of confidence and language they need to be able to communicate better with everyone. 

You’re also doing grassroots outreach throughout the community. How meaningful is this type of outreach for organizations like Sage Collective?

Well, you can talk about it, but our thing is to be about it. We have to go out in the field and connect with people on their level, sit down, have a conversation with them, have a conversation with the community, and say, “This is what we need in our community.” So connecting with the public, the Aldermen, builders, and even larger corporations allows Sage Collective to advance our service to others that may be in real need of tackling isolation and depression. If we come in and show them the type of programming we’re doing, we could get funding. And so connecting with different organizations and bringing those resources to the community, where there are underserved seniors or disabled communities is key to what we should and will be doing.

It’s very fulfilling work to walk out of the door and have a purpose. And that’s one of the things that we at Sage Collective make sure people understand — that they do have a purpose in life —  and it should extend beyond what the nation is saying or thinking.

Speaking of purpose and along the lines of Sage Collectives beliefs and values, what unique values held by Sage Collective drew you to work for them?

The fact that Sage Collective has implemented a new way of thinking. Humans have to constantly think differently to allow themselves to change. I can go to YouTube now, and I can download two-minute workouts, 15-minute workouts, and 20-minute workouts and Sage Collective helps put those resources out there so that seniors can know that they don’t always have to tap into their budget and do something expensive to improve their health. Why wouldn’t someone want to be a part of an organization that’s not trying to buy them, not trying to make them spend a whole lot of money to improve their lifestyle, to improve their health, to help connect them with others?

What are you most looking forward to most as a new member of Sage Collective’s team? What do you hope to accomplish in your time ahead?

Making change leaves a legacy. So it’s a great feeling coming on board with a team that shares the same beliefs that I have and takes them to the next level. Even though I am living with the purpose of securing myself and others, I’m also changing the way people look at their futures. And there’s not a lot of people preaching that or teaching that. And I love the concept of being that person that can walk through the door and make you smile and laugh. 

One woman in the Vibrant Living Program made me smile last week when she told me that I had brought out a feeling she had been missing because she was listening to blues music and remembering their younger years. So I think knowing that somebody cares, and then incorporating their feelings into the next lesson, into the next program, into the next adventure, who doesn’t want to be a part of that? So I see myself being that person, taking the time to understand my clients, and then being right there on the level with them. And as far as Sage Collective, as long as they’re in business, I want to be there.

› Back to top

Explore Now

Vibrant Learning Caregiver Support