About

The mission of Richmond Aging and Engaging is to support the health, wellness, and quality of life of older adults aging-in-place in low-income housing.  Through creative, educational, and fitness programming, and opportunities for volunteer service, we ensure access to meaningful activities that foster a sense of purpose, build social connections, and empower older adults to live their best life.


Aging is just another word for living.

-Cindy Joseph

History

Richmond Engaging and Engaging was established as a not-for-profit organization in August 2022 by our founder, Jodi Winship, Ph.D., OTR/L.  As an occupational therapist, Jodi believes that engaging in meaningful activities -  those things that we not only need to do (getting dressed, managing medications, etc), but also those things that we want to do (going to the park with the grandkids, playing cards with a friend), is essential for our health and wellbeing.  Scientific research continues to show the importance of physical, cognitive, and social activity in maintaining health and functioning in older age.  Yet for older adults living in low-income housing, finding ways to engage in physical, cognitive, and social activities can be challenging.  Lack of transportation and limited finances can be a barrier to accessing community programming; and unlike retirement communities catering to a wealthier population, most low-income housing buildings provide no, or limited on-site activity programming.  With her background in occupational therapy, experience working with low-income older adults, and training in community engagement, Jodi set out to fill this gap and Richmond Aging and Engaging was born.

Our Board

Jodi Winship, Ph.D., OTR/L

Richmond Aging and Engaging

Patricia Slattum, Pharm.D., Ph.D.

Virginia Geriatric Education Center, Virginia Center on Aging

Sheryl Finucane, Ph.D., PT

Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Physical Therapy

Heather Fortune

Senior Connections

Lauryn Helstrom. OTS

Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Occupational Therapy

Lauryn Walker, RN, Ph.D.

Virginia Center for Health Innovation

Hannah Meinertzhagan, OTD, OTR/L

HCA Virginia

Ajai Blue-Saunders

SOAR365

Annual Reports