OCDOA Endless Possibilities banner

01/26/2024 - 02/08/2024

Topics in this Edition

  • Announcements

  • Community News

  • Upcoming Programs

  • Resources & Services

  • Volunteer Opportunities

  • Contact Us

Announcements

Orange County Roadshow flyer

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Visit all the tables from our county and be sure to stop 
by our table to learn about Aging!

Orange County Roadshow flyer in Spanish

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Community News

University United Methodist Church logo

Grief & Loss 
Support Group


If you are grieving the loss of a loved one or have experienced losses in other areas of life, join us to learn how to live with such losses in healthy ways. The group, led by trained Stephen Ministers Terry Hamlet and Scott Glasser, begins on Sunday, February 11, 2024, and runs for seven weeks through March 24, 2024, from 1-3 p.m. at University UMC, 150 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill. Contact Terry at thamlet913@gmail.com by February 4 to sign up or if you have questions. Everyone is welcome regardless of their faith or church affiliation!

Upcoming Programs

Cultural Practices of Death and Dying flyer

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Black History Month Movie Night flyer

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Read it & Reap flyer

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LGBTQ+ Films, Friend, and Food flyer

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NCMedAssist flyer in English

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NCMedAssist flyer in Spanish

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Solo Agers flyer

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Cartoon group meeting of 7 people in a circle

Chapel Hill 
Support Group

Support groups are a space to meet with other caregivers to share experiences, learn new skills, and get answers to questions about dementia and other long-term disabilities. We have resumed in-person meetings and have added a new Zoom-only group. Chapel Hill Support Group: Contact Kendall McMillan to join - KMcmillan@orangecountync.gov or 919-245-4278.

Date: Fri, Jan 26; Time: 10:30 am; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-245-4278 or Email: KMcmillan@orangecountync.gov ; Fee: Free 

Two hands holding one on a table

Cultural Practices of Death and Dying

Cultures vary in how they conceptualize death and what happens when a person dies. While dying is a universal experience the process by which we express grief, honor those who have died, and select an end of life practice varies between cultures.  Join our panel discussion as we explore different practices and gain a greater understanding of death and dying in America.   

Date: Wed, Jan 31; Time: 4 – 6 pm; Location: Seymour Center
Call: 919-968-2070; Register by: Fri, Jan 26; Fee: Free 

Star of David

A Greek Girl in Auschwitz: Rebecca Yomtov Hauser

Bonnie Hauser recounts the harrowing story of her mother, Rebecca Yomtov Hauser. Rebecca along with the entire Jewish community of Ioannina, Greece was rounded up and deported to Auschwitz in March 1944. After a year in Auschwitz, Rebecca was transferred to Bergen Belsen where she was liberated in 1945. Rebecca was the only survivor in her immediate family.

Date: Wed, Jan 31; Time: 2 pm; Location: Passmore Center/Hybrid 
Call: 919-245-2015; Register by: Fri, Jan 26; Activity Code: 213081-01; Fee: Free

Photo of a breakfast plate of eggs, pancakes, and bacon

Black History Month Breakfast at Hargraves

In recognition of Black History Month, celebrate a rewarding cultural program experience, fellowship, and a soulful breakfast. This annual program is co-sponsored by Chapel Hill Parks & Recreation and Orange County Department on Aging. Min: 30/Max: 70. 

Date: Fri, Feb 2; Time: 10:30 – 12:30 pm; Location: Hargraves Center; Call: 919-968-2070 Activity Code: 350019-03; Register by: Fri, Jan 26; Fee: Free 

Clipart wallet, calculator, clipboard, and coins

Welcome to Medicare Class

If you’re turning 65 soon, you’re probably being bombarded by mailings about Medicare.  This free class will provide valuable information whether you’re retiring soon, already retired, or continuing to work.  You’ll learn how and when to enroll, potential penalties for late enrollment, Medicare’s costs, benefits, and options.  

Date: Mon, Feb 5; Time: 5:30 – 7 pm; Location: Chapel Hill Public Library, 100 Library Drive, Chapel Hill NC; Call: 919-968-2070; Fee: Free  

Date: Tue, Feb 20; Time: 6 – 7:30 pm; Location: Online presentation via Zoom Register: www.orangecountync.gov/Medicare101_feb ; Fee: Free  

For additional sessions in March, please visit our website www.orangecountync.gov/Medicare or call us at 919-245-4274. 

Overhead image of a potluck dinner

LGBTQ+ Winter Film and Potluck

Join us as we continue our monthly dinner and movie series with a new twist! We will embrace our opportunities to share good films, great company, and delicious potlucks! Each month will feature a new movie that celebrates the joys, struggles and journeys of the LGBTQ+ community. Co-hosted by Carolina Aging Alliance and Project EngAGE LGBTQ+ Senior Resource Team. Contact method is required upon registration. Dinner will be served at 5:30 pm. Potluck Registration: www.orangecountync.gov/LGBTQpotluck

Date: Wed, Feb 7; Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070 Register by: Tue, Feb 6; Fee: Free  

Photo of Passmore Center

Newcomers Welcome

Welcome to Passmore! Join our staff for a tour of our facility. Enjoy coffee and snacks and become familiar with what our Center has to offer. Are you new to Hillsborough? Are you looking to make friends, take a class, or get some exercise? Let’s chat about what Passmore can do for you and how you can be a part of our growing community.

Date: Wed, Feb 7; Time: 10 – 11 am; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015
Activity Code: 253022-02; Register by: Wed, Jan 31; Fee: Free

Cartoon hands holding up puzzle pieces

Puzzle People 

Do you love jigsaw puzzles? Are you ready to swap out the puzzles you've completed for something new? You're in luck! Puzzle People will gather every other month to swap puzzles. There are simple exchange rules to keep things fair, but any jigsaw puzzle (with all of its pieces) is welcomed and can be swapped. Email pell@orangecountync.gov if you have any questions.

Date: Wed, Feb 7; Time: 3 – 4 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070
Activity Code: 313120-05; Register by: Wed, Jan 31; Fee: Free 

Cartoon brain holding weights

Memory Screening Day

Memory screenings are an important part of a good health and wellness routine for people of all ages. Screenings take just a few minutes, consist of a series of questions, and are conducted one-on-one with a certified screener. Min: 5/Max: 50. 

Date: Thu, Feb 8; Time: 9 am – 12 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2087
or Email: AgingTransitions@orangecountync.gov ; Fee: Free 

Cartoon video game and computer

Game Development 
in NC

Learn how art and technology merge to create tools for training, education, and entertainment. Right around the corner from Orange County, there are companies right in the RTP area that make up the gaming industry. Many are artists who create and code for the games. Instructor: Paula Hindman. 

Date: Fri, Feb 9; Time: 11 am; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015
Activity Code: 214051-01; Register by: Fri, Feb 2; Fee: Free

Art museum clipart

Art Appreciation Portraits

Art appreciation starts with you, the viewer. How does a picture speak to you, emotionally and from your personal experience? A docent from the Ackland Art Museum will guide our discussion as he shows works from the National Portrait Gallery. Min: 3/Max: 12. 

Date: Fri, Feb 16; Time: 1 - 2:30 pm; Location: Passmore Center; Call: 919-245-2015
Activity Code: 213085-01; Register by: Fri, Feb 9; Fee: Free 

Cartoon couple dancing

Love is in the Air:
Cupid’s Back!

Love is in the air and Cupid is on the loose! His love arrows are flying. Will you get hit? Get out your chic party attire and comfy dance shoes for a spectacular evening. Live music will fill the air and dinner will be served at our signature event. This party will overflow with endless possibilities of love and joy. Co-sponsored with Hannah Ruth Foundation. Min: 50/Max: 100. 

Date: Sat, Feb 10; Time: 6 – 8 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070
Activity Code: 313057-07; Register by: Sat, Feb 3; Fee: Free

Valentines Clipart

Passmore Valentine Party

Wear your festive red attire and join us for light refreshments and company on the day when everyone deserves a little love. 

Date: Wed, Feb 14; Time: 2 pm; Location: Passmore Center Call: 919-245-2015; Activity Code: 213077-01; Register by: Wed, Feb 7; Fee: Free

Chinese lanterns

Art Exhibit: Lunar New Year Inspired Art

Ring in the Lunar New Year through art! Presented by the Chinese Cultural Development Association, this collaborative and diverse works exhibition celebrates the talents of our vibrant local Chinese community. We invite all to share in the spirit and artistic expressions at this opening reception. The exhibit will end on Sat, Apr 6. Min: 20/ Max: 60. 

Date: Sat, Feb 3; Time: 2 – 3 pm; Location: Seymour Center; Call: 919-968-2070
Activity Code: 354187-13; Register by: Sat, Jan 27; Fee: Free 

Resources & Services

Advance Directives 101
WiFi - House

Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a Federal Communications Commission program that helps connect families and households struggling to afford internet service. Eligible households can enroll through a participating broadband provider or directly with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) using an online or mail in application. You can learn more about the benefit, including eligibility and enrollment information, by visiting www.fcc.gov/ACP, or by calling 877-384-2575.

Hispanic woman - office - phone

Aging Transitions Services

Talk to trained staff about any aging-related issue. Call the Aging Helpline at 919-968-2087 or email Aging Services. We try to find answers to your age-related questions and link you to the services that you need. 

Helpline hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
    
Chinese & Spanish Language Helpline
    Call 919-245-4275 to speak to our staff in Mandarin.
    Call 919-245-2010 to leave a message in Spanish.

Aging Transitions, Senior Center programming and Volunteer Connect 55+ staff are available to meet individually by appointment, phone, or email. For more information call the Passmore Center at 919-245-2015, Seymour Center at 919-968-2070, or the Aging Helpline at 919-968-2087.

Caregiver Supports

Support groups, educational programs, Memory Café, and Care Partner Collaborative; gather and stay connected with us online or in-person, depending on the program.  For upcoming programs download our Current Caregiver Programming flyer.  For more caregiver resources, sign up for the monthly Community News for Caregivers e-newsletter.

Do You Need Help Finding Transportation?

 The Transportation Specialist provides information on transportation, travel training, the volunteer driver program, and advocacy. 

Call the Transportation Help Line: 919-717-1853 (Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm).

Chinese caregiver
Aging Well Together Radio Show

Stream live or listen to the podcast.

Chinese E Life - Happy Life Column

Chinese E Life

OCDOA Podcast for the Blind

Current OCDOA Upcoming Events e-newsletter

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Housing Assistance (EHA)

The EHA was created to help Orange County residents with low incomes prevent eviction and homelessness and secure and maintain stable housing. Assistance is available to households  in Orange County that:

  1. Earn no more than 30% of the area median income 
  2. Have an urgent need for housing assistance that is related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and 
  3. Do not have adequate resources to cover the cost of their housing need.

Rent, mortgage and utility payments, security deposits, application fees and other emergency housing-related expenses are eligible for reimbursement.

To learn more or to apply, call the Orange County Housing Helpline at 919-245-2655 or visit Emergency Housing Assistance (EHA) Program

The program is funded by Orange County and the Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough, along with state and federal funding.

Free Nutrition Supplements
house - dollar sign

Financial Assistance for Housing Payments

The NC Homeowner Financial Assistance Fund is now accepting applications from North Carolina homeowners whose finances were impacted by the pandemic and who need assistance with housing-related expenses.

Homeowners can learn more and apply for help by calling 1-855-MY-NCHAF (1-855-696-2423) or by visiting NCHomeownerAssistance.gov.

incontinence supplies

In Need of Incontinence Supplies?

Thanks to generous donations, the Department on Aging has a supply of incontinence supplies including: Bed pads, pull up briefs, adult diapers, wipes, and adult booster pads. If you are in need of any of these supplies, we may be able to provide you with up to one pack per month (depending on availability of the items requested).

Contact the Aging Helpline (919-968-2087 or agingtransitions@orangecountync.gov) to request supplies.

faucet - water - dollar sign

Low Income Household
Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

 LIHWAP is a temporary emergency program that will help eligible households and families afford water and wastewater services, providing a one-time payment for eligible low-income households paid directly to the utility company. LIHWAP runs through September 2023 or until the funds are exhausted. Apply online at www.epass.nc.gov or call/visit your local County Department of Social Services. Learn more download the LIHWAP flier.

Options counseling

Download and share the flyer.

wallet - money

Senior Center Fee Payment and Financial Assistance

The Orange County Senior Centers strive to be accessible and welcoming to all seniors.  If you want to participate in senior center fee-based activities and are unable, or unwilling, to pay a required fee, you may still participate.

 Furthermore, a selection of free activities and programs are available to seniors age 55 and over. Read more.

computers

Technology Classes: Available Through the  Seymour Tech Center

Seymour Tech offers FREE classes for older adults around personal computer, tablet, and smart phone use. See the full list of upcoming programs here.

Volunteer Opportunities

hands - hearts

Volunteer Connect 55+

Would you like to share your skills and gifts with older adults in Orange County?  To volunteer, please contact Orange County Department on Aging's Volunteer Connect 55+ (VC 55+) Volunteer Coordinator, Rebecca Bratsch by phone at 919-245-4241 or email rbratsch@orangecountync.gov

Contact Us

Passmore Center

Location & Hours

103 Meadowlands Dr. (PO Box 8181)
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: 919-245-2015

Hours:
Tue, Wed, & Fri: 8 am – 5 pm
Mon & Thu: 8 am – 8 pm

Seymour Center

Location & Hours

2551 Homestead Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Phone:919-968-2070

Hours: 
Mon – Thu: 8 am – 9 pm
Fri – Sat: 8 am – 5 pm


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300 W Tryon St, Hillsborough, NC 27278

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