The following is a newsletter distributed by the City of Santa Monica.
April is the month to appreciate and show our love for our planet. This special month encourages individuals, communities, and organizations worldwide to take action and make positive changes to reduce their impact on the environment. Earth Month is an opportunity to reflect on our relationship with the planet and how we can all contribute to a sustainable future. Join Santa Monica Active Aging Pilot Program events and celebrate Earth Month by taking steps towards a greener future! We have some exciting things planned for you in April. Here’s a sneak peek:
- Walk-in Tutoring at the Main Branch Library: Thursday, April 6, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (The City of Santa Monica, LA Metro, and Big Blue Bus will be here to share information about Active Aging Pilot Program, Metro On the Move Riders Club, and Lyft MODE.)
- Bicycle Safety Class at the Pico Branch Library: Wednesday, April 12, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Walking/Transit Outing to the California Science Center: Tuesday, April 18, 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM (LA Metro On the Move Riders Club will also join us to empower older adults with the information and confidence to travel on fixed-route transportation)
- Earth Day Bicycle Outing: Saturday, April 22, 9:00AM – NOON, starting at Douglas Park off of Chelsea Avenue
- Coffee Chat at Cafe Zella: Thursday, April 27, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
We hope you join us in celebrating Earth Month this April. Let’s work together to make our planet a better place for generations to come.
Recap: A Look Back at Our March Events!
Walking/Transit Outing to UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden
On Thursday, March 9th, a group of five older adults and two program staff enjoyed a walking/transit outing to the UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden. The sun was out and the temperature was perfect. After meeting at Pico Branch Library, the group took two buses and arrived at the garden after a 50-minute trip. During the one-hour garden tour led by a volunteer guide, they explored various plants and even had a chance to smell fresh bay leaves and peppermint. The blooming cherry blossom and sunbathing turtles were also highlights of the trip. The participants had a great time chatting and getting to know each other during the ride.
Walking/Transit Safety Class at the Main Library
On Thursday, March 23th, Active Aging staff hosted a walking/transit safety class at the Main Branch Library to educate older adults on safe ways to walk, take public transit, and rideshare. The class emphasized the importance of being aware, staying visible, and following traffic signals and signs while walking. We also discussed personal safety while using public transportation and ridesharing services, such as checking driver and vehicle information and sharing trip details with friends or family. Overall, the class aimed to equip participants with practical strategies to stay safe while navigating their daily commutes.
| If you missed out on these events, don’t worry – sign up for our April events listed above. If you attended any of these events, thank you and we’d love to see you again in April! |
| Save the Date! Join Our Senior Mobility Expo on June 3rd! Mark your calendars! On Saturday, June 3rd, 2023, we’re hosting the Active Aging Mobility Expo, an event designed to connect seniors with a variety of active transportation opportunities. This expo is perfect for older adults who are interested in exploring using transit, learning more about safe walking, and different biking options such as recumbent bikes, e-bikes, bike share, and shared seated scooters. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the program and get all the information you need. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that’s all about staying active and mobile as you age! |
Join Our Active Aging Ambassador Program!
The Santa Monica Active Aging Ambassador Program is open to anyone who wants to help older adults connect to transportation options like walking, biking, and taking transit. We know that personal stories and connections are two of the most meaningful ways for someone to learn about a new program and get inspired to try new transportation options. That is why we are recruiting Active Aging Ambassadors to help us spread the word about the pilot program.
As an Active Aging Ambassador, you will receive information about the program to share with your friend, family, neighbors, and anyone else you think would be interested. You will also have a chance to share a story to help inspire older adults in your community to connect to more ways to get around.
Becoming an Ambassador is easy. Simply fill out this quick on-line form and an Active Aging program staff member will reach out to you!
