Seniors are finding new purpose through this program—are you missing out?
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Loneliness isn’t just a passing feeling—it’s a serious health risk, especially for older adults.
Studies show that chronic isolation can increase the risk of serious health issues.
But what if the solution was closer than you think?
In Chandler, Arizona, a grassroots initiative called Golden Neighbors is making a big difference—proving that a little community care can go a long way toward healthier, happier golden years.
The idea behind Golden Neighbors began with Priscilla Quintana, a Chandler resident moved by a personal journey.
When her father was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, she became his companion at every chemotherapy appointment.
In those waiting rooms, she noticed something heartbreaking: many seniors sat alone, without help, trying to manage rides, treatments, and daily needs on their own.
That experience planted a seed. Priscilla realized that Chandler’s seniors needed more support—and more connection.
So she created Golden Neighbors, a program that’s as much about human kindness as it is about practical assistance.
Golden Neighbors isn’t just a list of resources—it’s a lifeline. The program offers essential support like utility and rental assistance, hygiene products, and toiletries—small things that stretch limited incomes and ease everyday pressures.
But perhaps the most powerful part of the program is its focus on belonging. Each month, Golden Neighbors hosts events where seniors can gather to learn, connect, and simply enjoy each other’s company.
From tech help to holiday parties with meals and goodie bags, these events turn strangers into friends and ordinary days into something special.
Also read: Experts reveal: The critical mistakes grandparents make without even knowing
As one participant put it, “So many of us are on our own. We don't have a lot of family around. And some of us can drive different things. We're not physically able to do different things, and we need to know what resources are out there.”
Golden Neighbors steps in to meet that need—no one has to navigate these years alone.
Golden Neighbors believes learning should never stop, and one of its most popular partnerships is with Senior Tech Pal.
These hands-on sessions teach older adults how to use technology to stay in touch with loved ones—from setting up FaceTime and Zoom to using laptops and smartphones.
For many, these skills open up a whole new world of independence and communication.
And every event includes a hot meal and a goodie bag filled with donated personal items and thoughtful extras—a small but powerful reminder that every attendee matters.
Priscilla’s hope is that the kindness sparked by Golden Neighbors spreads far beyond any single gathering. Check in on your neighbors, she urges.
Ask how they’re doing. If you have the means, see if there’s anything you can bring them. It goes a long way, and it’s the neighborly thing to do.
A small gesture can change someone’s day—or even their outlook on life. When people care for each other, community becomes more than a place—it becomes a source of strength.
Whether you or someone you know could benefit from the program—or if you want to support the mission—it’s easy to get involved.
Visit https://www.chandleraz.gov for more details or call 480-782-4362 to join the Golden Neighbors email list and hear about upcoming events.
Read next: I've never been a mother, but now I'm a grandma. Here's what that's like
Have you experienced the power of community yourself? Do you have tips for staying connected or stories of neighborly kindness? We’d love to hear them. Drop a comment below and join the conversation.
Studies show that chronic isolation can increase the risk of serious health issues.
But what if the solution was closer than you think?
In Chandler, Arizona, a grassroots initiative called Golden Neighbors is making a big difference—proving that a little community care can go a long way toward healthier, happier golden years.
The idea behind Golden Neighbors began with Priscilla Quintana, a Chandler resident moved by a personal journey.
When her father was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, she became his companion at every chemotherapy appointment.
In those waiting rooms, she noticed something heartbreaking: many seniors sat alone, without help, trying to manage rides, treatments, and daily needs on their own.
That experience planted a seed. Priscilla realized that Chandler’s seniors needed more support—and more connection.
Could this local program be the secret to a happier, more connected life for seniors. Image source: Raychan / Unsplash
So she created Golden Neighbors, a program that’s as much about human kindness as it is about practical assistance.
Golden Neighbors isn’t just a list of resources—it’s a lifeline. The program offers essential support like utility and rental assistance, hygiene products, and toiletries—small things that stretch limited incomes and ease everyday pressures.
But perhaps the most powerful part of the program is its focus on belonging. Each month, Golden Neighbors hosts events where seniors can gather to learn, connect, and simply enjoy each other’s company.
From tech help to holiday parties with meals and goodie bags, these events turn strangers into friends and ordinary days into something special.
Also read: Experts reveal: The critical mistakes grandparents make without even knowing
As one participant put it, “So many of us are on our own. We don't have a lot of family around. And some of us can drive different things. We're not physically able to do different things, and we need to know what resources are out there.”
Golden Neighbors steps in to meet that need—no one has to navigate these years alone.
Golden Neighbors believes learning should never stop, and one of its most popular partnerships is with Senior Tech Pal.
These hands-on sessions teach older adults how to use technology to stay in touch with loved ones—from setting up FaceTime and Zoom to using laptops and smartphones.
For many, these skills open up a whole new world of independence and communication.
And every event includes a hot meal and a goodie bag filled with donated personal items and thoughtful extras—a small but powerful reminder that every attendee matters.
Priscilla’s hope is that the kindness sparked by Golden Neighbors spreads far beyond any single gathering. Check in on your neighbors, she urges.
Ask how they’re doing. If you have the means, see if there’s anything you can bring them. It goes a long way, and it’s the neighborly thing to do.
A small gesture can change someone’s day—or even their outlook on life. When people care for each other, community becomes more than a place—it becomes a source of strength.
Whether you or someone you know could benefit from the program—or if you want to support the mission—it’s easy to get involved.
Visit https://www.chandleraz.gov for more details or call 480-782-4362 to join the Golden Neighbors email list and hear about upcoming events.
Read next: I've never been a mother, but now I'm a grandma. Here's what that's like
