Aging in America: Marc Freedman
On May 15th, forty representatives from nonprofit organizations and more than fifteen funders gathered to hear an engaging presentation from Marc Freedman, president of Civic Ventures. Marc discussed how to ensure a positive future for Arizona by creating an "encore economy" with older adults.
Marc defined a new stage of life that is taking shape in our society - a post-work, pre-elderly time during which baby boomers are engaging in meaningful work in the community. As a special treat, Marc introduced the latest Civic Ventures Purpose Prize winner, Gene Jones. Mr. Jones received the award for creating the nonprofit Opening Minds through the Arts in Tucson, Arizona at the age of 84. The K-8 program integrates the arts into core school curricula as a way to boost individual academic achievement and improve at-risk children's chance for future success. He briefly addressed the audience, discussing his work with Opening Minds through the Arts and his motivations for launching the project.
Program Video
Click below to view the full video of this presentation, including an introduction by Carol Kratz of The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, as well as a special speech by Gene Jones, Civic Ventures Purpose Prize winner.
Thank you to Arizona Community Foundation and The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust for sponsoring this program!