Did you know that the Bucksport Bay Healthy Community Coalition (serving Bucksport, Orland, Prospect and Verona Island) has a newly-launched program called THRIVE (formerly Thriving in Place) for older adults to access local resources, make connections, and participate in a Healthy Living self-assessment?
This program was initially launched in 2014 using grant monies from the Maine Health Access Foundation (MEHAF). The program included a robust and well-researched plan to address social determinants of health based on the SASH (Support and Services at Home) model. Much research, thoughtfulness and collaboration went into developing a way to address community needs like home safety, healthcare, transportation and social interaction.
Then the Pandemic hit in 2019 and many programs adapted and changed quickly to handle the urgency of the crisis. Bucksport and the surrounding communities along with BBHCC focused on taking care of their residents which caused some aspects of Thriving in Place (TIP) to be put on the back burner.
In 2022, the Thriving in Place program produced a Planning and Resource Guide for Older Adults which is pictured above. This resource is now available in print and for download on the BBHCC website. The idea is that this guide can be used by individuals or families to start conversations, find local resources, or as part of the larger THRIVE program.
The full program now re-named THRIVE includes several meetings with a volunteer to discuss needs and get to know one another. Then, a self-assessment is completed to determine the highest priorities of need for the individual or family. Finally, an action plan with SMART goals is developed with follow-up and support provided by BBHCC.
Now, in 2023, there are multiple ways to find out more about THRIVE and get involved in the program.
Attend a "THRIVE at Home" virtual discussion group on Thursdays at 10:00 am. See BBHCC's Facebook page for more information.
Attend a Live and In-Person event at the Buck Memorial Library. The next event is on March 8th from 1:00 - 2:00 pm.
Call the office at 469-6682 to schedule an appointment with the BBHCC consultant or volunteer.
Send an email to: consultant@bucksportbayhealth.org
Submit a contact form through the BBHCC website Thrive program page
We all hope to thrive and live a meaningful life. The THRIVE program is now available for all ages. Additionally, we encourage volunteers to become involved through BBHCC.