FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Alan Frent
Director of Communications
Alliance for Aging, Inc.
Phone: (305) 671-6325
Email: frenta@allianceforaging.org
Website: www.allianceforaging.org
Ocean Reef Community Foundation Awards Grant to Alliance for Aging to Expand Virtual Social Connection Program for Older Adults in the Upper Keys
MIAMI, FL (April 2025) — The Alliance for Aging, Inc. is proud to announce it has been awarded a generous grant from the Ocean Reef Community Foundation (ORCF) to expand its highly successful Live Learn Grow virtual social connection program to the Upper Keys. This award represents a crucial step toward combating isolation among older adults in Monroe County, a region where access to in-person engagement opportunities remains limited.
The program expansion is scheduled to launch in June 2025, offering biweekly Saturday sessions to support emotional wellness, social connection, and resilience among older adults living in the Upper Keys.
Live Learn Grow is an innovative wellness program that offers older adults meaningful opportunities to connect with others, explore personal growth, and improve emotional well-being. Led by certified grief counselor Ligia M. Houben, each biweekly virtual session blends guided conversation, mindfulness, and community-building in a supportive environment.
“This generous investment from the Ocean Reef Community Foundation allows us to bring one of our most impactful programs to an area that truly needs it,” said Max B. Rothman, President and CEO of the Alliance for Aging. “We’re thrilled to extend Live Learn Grow to the Upper Keys, ensuring more older adults have access to the tools and connections they need to age with dignity, meaning, and joy.”
“I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be when older adults are given space to reflect, share, and heal together,” said Ligia M. Houben, who will lead the new Upper Keys sessions. “This program is more than a class—it’s a community. I’m honored to support participants on their journey of growth.”
The Alliance for Aging serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. With over 35 years of experience and a network of trusted providers, the Alliance delivers essential services that help older adults maintain their independence, health, and quality of life.
Funding from ORCF will support program outreach, facilitation, and technical assistance for older adults in the Upper Keys to ensure equitable access to the virtual platform.
About the Ocean Reef Community Foundation
The Ocean Reef Community Foundation improves the quality of life in the Ocean Reef and surrounding communities through philanthropy and strategic grantmaking. The Foundation supports organizations that serve the Upper Keys in the areas of education, youth, health care, and community initiatives. For more information, visit www.oceanreefcommunityfoundation.org.
About the Alliance for Aging
The Alliance for Aging is the federally designated Area Agency on Aging for Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. As a nonprofit organization, the Alliance oversees programs that support the health and independence of older adults, including home-delivered meals, caregiver respite, Medicare counseling, and evidence-based wellness programs. For more information, visit www.allianceforaging.org.