Global Diversity Awareness Month
October is Global Diversity Awareness Month, a time to celebrate diversity and inclusion. According to National Today Global Diversity Awareness Month FAQS, it “is a reminder of the positive impact a diverse culture of people can have on society as a whole.”
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) celebrates individuals from all cultures and backgrounds and
honors the diversity of cultures and communities around the world.
Did you know? OCES' services are available in multiple languages including but not limited to Cape Verde Creole, Haitian Creole, Spanish, and Portuguese. From the first point of telephone contact, OCES connects with individuals, families and caregivers seeking resources and assistance.
Caring for a Diverse Community
Through the talent of an experienced, diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community.
OCES supports EVERYONE without exception. There is “No Wrong Door” when it comes to supporting all. Through more than 20 different programs, OCES offers significant life-supporting care contributing to an individual’s ability to live within the community as independently as possible for as long as possible while preserving dignity and quality of life. With a service area of 23 communities, OCES is the largest provider of these in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in the southeastern part of Massachusetts.
OCES’ Nutrition Program enhances the quality of life for older adults by providing nutritionally sound and satisfying meals at Community Dining meal sites located throughout the OCES service area as well as through the Meals On Wheels (home-delivered meals) Program. Holiday meals are offered at Congregate Meal sites and to Meals On Wheels recipients in certain communities. In addition, a diverse Caribbean meal is served daily in Brockton. OCES and The Bridgewater Cole-Yeaton Senior Center congregate meal site have teamed up to provide an LGBTQ+ Senior Luncheon on a monthly basis. All LGBTQ+ seniors are welcome. If you are interested in any of the Nutrition Opportunities available in your area, email ocesinfo@ocesma.org.
OCES also provides information and resources to a diverse audience through “Community Options” which is a local cable show on Brockton Community Access.
Diversity enriches our community. It’s important to respect one another regardless of background and differences. There are many ways to commemorate diversity at any time, not just during Global Diversity Awareness Month. Learning more about different cultures, customs and experiences is one of the best ways to strengthen understanding and connection.
For more information about programming at OCES, visit www.ocesma.org. If you are in need of services, contact OCES’ Information and Referral Department at 508-584-1561.
About the Author
Nicole Long is the Chief Executive Officer of Old Colony Elder Services (OCES). Founded in 1974, OCES is a private, non-profit organization proudly serving greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusets. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.
Source:
National Today. (n.d.) Global Diversity Awareness Month–October 2023. htps://nationaltoday.com/global-diversity-awareness-month/
Recent News
MAY ARTICLE: Join us to celebrate Older Americans Month this May!
The Administration for Community Living (ACL), which leads the nation’s observance of this special month, has announced this year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging”, will focus on “transforming how society perceives, talks about and approaches aging”.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reports that by 2030, all Baby Boomers will reach age 65 or older; by 2040, this demographic is expected to make up 22 percent of the American population.
Full Article MAY ARTICLE: Join us to celebrate Older Americans Month this May!
APRIL ARTICLE: April is National Volunteer Month
Full Article APRIL ARTICLE: April is National Volunteer Month
Community Options Ep. 307 - National Volunteer Month
In April, we celebrate National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize and honor the countless individuals who generously donate their time, skills, and energy to make a lasting impact in their communities. At Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), we proudly acknowledge the dedication of our volunteers who work tirelessly to support older adults, individuals with disabilities, and others across the 23 communities we serve.
We discussed our Volunteer programs with:
- Cidalia America, Volunteer Coordinator at OCES
- Mike Pauley, OCES Volunteer
Full Article Community Options Ep. 307 - National Volunteer Month
MARCH ARTICLE: Social Work: Making A Positive Difference
During March, we celebrate Social Work Month and the many contributions of social workers.
Social workers are dedicated to helping people and communities thrive. Social workers also help people of all ages cope with life’s challenges. A major part of a social worker’s job is advocacy. Social workers stand up for equal rights of all people and work to ensure that services are provided to all who need them.
Full Article MARCH ARTICLE: Social Work: Making A Positive Difference
Old Colony Elder Services Launches Urgent Campaign for Essential Funding to Support Vital Programs
OCES a designated Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) and the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has kicked off a campaign to raise awareness for essential funding needed to support vital programs including Home Care Services.
Old Colony Elder Services Honors Employees with Milestone Awards
OCES the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, honored staff members with annual milestone awards. On November 20, 2024, a special luncheon was held at Hotel 1620 in Plymouth Harbor, where thirty-three staff members from OCES' Brockton and Plymouth offices received longevity awards.
Full Article Old Colony Elder Services Honors Employees with Milestone Awards
FEBRUARY ARTICLE: Taking Care of Your Heart
Did you know? Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
February is American Heart Month, a time to bring awareness to heart disease and lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk for this serious disease.
JANUARY ARTICLE: Serving Others and Your Community as a Volunteer. Join the Movement on Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service
On January 20th, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights leader and activist. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day is a special holiday designated as an official National Day of Service that encourages volunteerism.
Old Colony Elder Services Names New Senior Care Options & One Care Plans Quality Manager
Crystal Carvalho, LSW, a Berkley, MA resident, has been promoted to Senior Care Options & One Care Plan Quality Manager at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) in Brockton, MA.
OCES Employees Support Individuals and Families this Holiday Season with Donations to Father Bill’s and My Brother’s Keeper
Staff at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) in Brockton and Plymouth are helping support those in need of assistance by providing gifts, grocery gift cards, and essential items this holiday season.