The Sarah Ralston Foundation (SRF) provides funding for nonprofit organizations that support vulnerable, underserved seniors throughout Philadelphia. These organizations focus on vital areas like food support, housing stability, advocacy, and programming for seniors. Programs such as technology training, peer counseling, and art classes are not only beneficial in their specific areas of focus but also provide essential opportunities for socialization—a key component of overall health and well-being.
“Programs for seniors, regardless of the purpose, offer the benefit of socialization,” said Heather Finnegan, Executive Director of The Sarah Ralston Foundation. “Any activity that gets our seniors out and interacting with others is good for their mental and often physical health. Even remote interactions over the phone or digital platforms help them feel connected. As we have learned, the alternative—loneliness and social isolation—is as harmful to our health as smoking.”
The Foundation’s nonprofit partners include organizations such as ARTZ Philadelphia, Generations Online, and Connectedly (formerly SOWN). While their approaches to combating loneliness and isolation differ, each plays a critical role in enriching the lives of the seniors they serve.
ARTZ Philadelphia: Connection Through Creativity
ARTZ Philadelphia enhances the quality of life for individuals living with dementia and their care partners through joyful interactions centered around arts and culture. Their evidence-based programs connect participants with artists, cultural organizations, and each other, fostering supportive communities that restore self-esteem and dignity.
Founder and Executive Director Susan Shifrin, an art historian and educator, launched ARTZ in response to a social worker’s question: “Is there anything we can do for people in memory care?” Shifrin’s experiences with her own mother, who lived with dementia, inspired a deep commitment to creating thoughtful, impactful programs.
“We’ve learned that no one is unreachable,” Shifrin said, recounting a story of a withdrawn gentleman with dementia who found meaning in winding yarn into a ball. Had he been a knitter himself? Had he helped a loved one with their knitting? This simple activity sparked his engagement and led to increased participation. He began to paint and to communicate verbally for the first time in a very long time, demonstrating the transformative power of creativity and connection.
ARTZ Philadelphia’s commitment to equity ensures they reach marginalized communities, including Spanish-speaking and Black populations, who are disproportionately affected by dementia. SRF funding has been instrumental in sustaining ARTZ’s programs during financially challenging times, enabling them to continue creating moments of joy and restoring agency for their participants.
Generations Online: Bridging the Digital Divide
Generations On line empowers older adults by providing interactive digital tools that enable independence and connectivity. Their software, designed with large fonts and straightforward instructions, helps seniors navigate essential online tasks at their own pace. From sending emails to accessing telehealth services, these tools open doors to independence and engagement.
“We aim to reach those who feel left behind in the digital age—those intimidated by technology or unsure where to start,” said Founder Tobey Dichter. “Our goal is to make technology accessible and empowering.”
Generations On Line’s efforts have helped countless seniors embrace digital literacy. In one program, a group of older women learned how to use telehealth platforms for the first time. One participant, in her late 80s, expressed newfound independence: “I need to do this on my own. I need to feel capable.”
SRF funding has supported Generations On Line’s development of new programs, including tutorials on internet safety and telehealth navigation. These resources are vital in ensuring seniors can stay connected and informed in an increasingly digital world.
Connectedly: Building Communities of Support
Connectedly (formerly SOWN) has built and sustained support networks for older women for nearly 40 years. Recognizing the critical need for connection as women age, the organization provides in-person and phone-based support groups and workshops, ensuring that all older adults, even homebound seniors can participate in meaningful relationships.
“Aging is not a journey you want to take alone,” said Executive Director Marypat Tracy. “Our groups provide the support and community that older adults need to thrive.”
Connectedly’s programs range from community-based support groups to phone counseling for homebound women. One participant, referred after a stroke, experienced significant improvements in her speech and confidence through a telephone support group. “Her transformation was remarkable,” Tracy said. “She went from hesitant and isolated to confident and connected.” In addition, their PhillyFamilies Connect and PhillyFamilies Read Together provide services for grandparent-headed families. The goal is to provide grandparents with the tools they need to raise their grandchildren.
SRF funding has been critical in expanding Connectedly’s services, allowing the organization to reach more women and provide essential support to those most in need.
The Broader Impact of SRF’s Support
The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s grants provide nonprofits with the resources they need to sustain and expand their work. In challenging economic times, this funding has been a lifeline, enabling organizations to continue addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable seniors.
Through the support of SRF, programs that reduce loneliness and isolation are making a measurable difference in the lives of Philadelphia’s seniors. These initiatives foster connection, restore dignity, and empower older adults to thrive in the face of life’s challenges.
Looking Ahead: 2025 General Operating Support Grant Cycle
The Sarah Ralston Foundation is excited to announce the 2025 General Operating Support grant cycle. Applications will open on February 15th, with a deadline of April 1st. Grantees will be notified on May 31st. This cycle represents another opportunity for SRF to empower nonprofit partners making a difference in the lives of vulnerable seniors across Philadelphia. We encourage all eligible organizations to apply and continue this vital work in our communities.