Stay at Home in Wilton (SAHW) recently introduced an exciting new dimension to the almost 10-year community organization by launching the first in a new series of podcasts called “The Story Next Door,” bringing two generations together in one conversation.
The organization offers seniors supportive services and resources, along with social and educational programs that unite its members and enhance their efforts to remain independent, active, and connected.
Today in 2019, Wilton’s population of people over 65 has grown to 20%. Now in the U.S., there are more people over 60 than under 18. Stay at Home in Wilton organizers say these incredible statistics mean it is important to address the needs of Wilton’s elders and elevate their voice in our town.
The organization promotes the believe that keeping our elders engaged is vital and that conversations between the generations will benefit everyone and strengthen and connect our community. Through this new podcast, Stay at Home in Wilton hopes to spearhead the effort to achieve this goal.
Recently, Dick King, an eight-year board SAHW member, 10-year volunteer, and a current member of the Advisory Committee, sat down to chat with Connor Allen, a Wilton High School junior. They discussed everything from how it was to grow up on a farm in Michigan versus suburban Wilton, how technology and mobility have changed their lifestyles, and how differently people of varying ages get the news.
As a long-time volunteer driver for Stay at Home in Wilton, King explained that, “We do more than drive people to where they need to go,” referencing conversations that led to a pop-up birthday party for someone who had thought no one cared, and in another instance to a handrail that was built for someone who recently had knee surgery.
When the conversation ended, King said, “I admire young people… our country is in good hands, and I am proud of what the youth can do and how capable they are at a young age.”
After his conversation with King, Allen said he learned a valuable lesson: “Building connections in the community and working together is what to strive for.” When asked his favorite quote, the teen cited King’s remark, “‘Once I asked a passenger, “How is Stay at Home in Wilton doing for you?” and she replied, “Oh my goodness, I get down on my knees every night and say thank God for Stay at Home in Wilton!” Those kinds of things really enrich your life as a volunteer.’”
To listen to the entire podcast and learn more about Stay at Home in Wilton and its goal to support a vibrant senior community, please visit the newly designed website.