“Lacking social connection can increase the risk for premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.” —Vivek H. Murthy, M.D., MBA, Surgeon General of the United States
Growing concerns around the dangers of loneliness have prompted a call to action by US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who recently issued an 82-page advisory on the issue. The advisory cites data from several studies, including research that found that nearly half of adults in the US experience feelings of loneliness daily.
When I first read the report, my reaction was typical of how I respond to injustice or suffering in our society: "That's just terrible. Why doesn't somebody do something about that?"
However, my perspective has changed over time, perhaps due to my advancing age and seeing loneliness firsthand in the senior centers where I teach classes in San Antonio. Instead of asking why someone else doesn't do something, I now ask myself, "Why don't I do something about this?" and try to rally others to join me in my efforts.
I’ve formed a nonprofit organization called Breaking Age that is dedicated to breaking the barriers between generations that contribute to loneliness and isolation.
I am thrilled to introduce you to an innovative and heartwarming initiative that is set to make a significant impact in our community by helping people across all generations find greater purpose, well-being, and community – Generations Over Dinner.
Generations Over Dinner is a unique solution designed to bridge the gap between different age groups and foster connections that transcend generations. We are excited to bring this initiative to the San Antonio community and beyond, and we believe that with your support, we can create positive change and lasting connections.
Our vision is simple yet powerful: We bring together 8 to 10 individuals from various generations, each representing a diverse spectrum of experiences and viewpoints. These individuals gather around a table for a moderated discussion on current topics while sharing a meal. The magic of Generations Over Dinner lies in the safe and respectful environment we create, where every voice is heard, appreciated, and valued. This initiative enables people from various backgrounds to learn from each other, gain new perspectives, and break down barriers that often divide us.
To give you a glimpse of this heartwarming experience, I invite you to watch our one-minute video.
Here's where you come in – I am reaching out to our compassionate community to join hands and help us make Generations Over Dinner a reality. Over the next year, I am hosting this event across all 11 senior centers in San Antonio. We will impact over 100 people. Your support will provide not only a nourishing meal but also the camaraderie and connections that can truly change lives.
A donation of $15 will cover the cost of one dinner. A donation of $150 will cover the cost of an entire dinner for 10.
Your support holds immense value. By contributing, you will facilitate meaningful conversations that connect people across generations, challenge stereotypes, and combat loneliness. Your act of kindness will have a lasting impact, fostering understanding and compassion that extends far beyond the dinner table.
As a token of our gratitude, we promise to keep you engaged and informed throughout this journey. You will receive heartwarming photos, touching testimonials, and event updates that showcase the positive impact of your support. Through these updates, you'll witness firsthand the bridges you've helped build and the smiles you've helped create.
Your kindness and generosity can truly make a difference. By supporting Generations Over Dinner, you are helping us foster connections, bridge generational gaps, and shape a world of empathy and understanding for generations to come.
To contribute or learn more about this initiative, please visit my GoFundMe site. Your support matters, and we deeply appreciate your consideration.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to joining hands with you to empower change and build bridges between generations.
I'm in!