Still Growing, Still Giving: Kathleen’s Story

In Central Indiana, many older adults are navigating a season of life that does not always feel secure.

Fixed incomes need to stretch further than they used to. Transportation becomes less reliable when a car breaks down. Health needs increase while support systems shrink. And, for many seniors, isolation quietly becomes one of the hardest challenges of all.

Recent Co-op Graduate Kathleen knows those realities well.

Kathleen first joined Grace Care Center’s Co-op program in 2018 when she was looking for support during a difficult time. What she found was not just assistance, but consistency, dignity, and a community that stayed with her for the long haul.

The Co-op is designed to move at the pace of real life. For Kathleen, that meant several years of coaching, encouragement, and practical support as she worked through budgeting, stability, and everyday challenges.

“For anyone who doesn’t know about the Co-op, they should be introduced to it,” Kathleen shares. “Everyone here is helpful, very nice, very thorough. They make good suggestions. All you have to do is talk it through.”

When Kathleen’s car broke down, the stability and support she found at Grace Care Center mattered even more. Through the Care Center’s Vehicle Services program, she was able to access a reliable vehicle.

“I got a car through the program when I needed it. It was a beautiful gift,” she says. “My car was down and out. Anyone who has helped me has been very understanding.”

For many seniors, something like a car repair is not just an inconvenience. It can mean the difference between independence and isolation. In Kathleen’s case, not having a car would have kept her from accessing critical services and healthcare appointments. Instead, she quickly got back on the road and  was reminded that she isn’t facing life alone.

Over time, Kathleen’s story has shifted from receiving support to offering it.

Today, she volunteers in the Choice Food Pantry, helping other families shop, choose fresh food, and feel welcomed when they walk through the doors.

Associate Pastor of Care Center Services Jed Gaffron has seen that transformation firsthand

“Not only has she been part of the Co-op program, but she’s been a faithful volunteer in the welcome room,” he says. “She is giving back. We are still going to see her even though she’s graduated. She’s a part of this Care Center community. We are so grateful she’s so consistent and faithful in the way she serves.”

Co-op Coach Claire Farrand, who first began working with Kathleen when she joined the Co-op, says the relationship has shaped her as well.

“She was the first person I started coaching when I began,” Claire shares. “She taught me about elder care and gave me a better perspective on everything seniors are dealing with. She’s so independent. I’m so proud of her growth and her relationship with her family.”

Kathleen says what she will remember most is not a single milestone, but the people.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here. I’ll miss everybody because I always looked forward to coming,” she says. “I’ll be here volunteering at the food pantry as long as I can get here. It’s a blessing to see how many wonderful things Grace Care Center does for people.”

Aging should not mean walking alone. Instead, it should mean having a community that shows up, stays steady, and makes sure older adults have access to food, transportation, connection, and dignity.

And thanks to supporters of Grace Care Center, that kind of community is exactly what is being built, right here in Central Indiana