Two, free senior-focused events set for Yountville – Molly’s Angels teams up with Share the Care, and local leaders
This month Yountville will benefit from the devoted work of Molly’s Angels, the treasured local non-profit that supports and empowers seniors to lead fulfilling lives filled with confidence, support and ample opportunities. Two free events open to the public will take place at Yountville Commons, 6554 Yount St.:
Senior Wellness Afternoon
Co-sponsored by Molly’s Angels and Share the Care
Tuesday, Sept. 9, from 1 to 3 p.m.
A wellness presentation, featuring an adaptive exercise showcase, information on preventing falls and an entertaining community bingo game, that will include prizes and treats will fill the afternoon.
Legislative Update and Community Conversation
Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Representatives from local, state, and federal offices are scheduled to share updates on issues impacting older adults. Light refreshments provided.
“We’ve been around for 26 years and were founded on the legacy of Molly Banz, a fearless Napa icon who was famous for supporting families in need,” explained Molly’s Angels Executive Director Devereaux Smith.
At the Sept. 9 Senior Wellness Afternoon, Share the Care will give a hands-on presentation regarding preventing falls, a comprehensive list for assessing hazards in the home, tips for fall prevention and introduce A Matter of Balance, an evidence-based program that reduces the fear of falling and increasing activity levels.
“As a licensed location for A Matter of Balance (MOB) with a master trainer on-staff, Share the Care is ready to help our neighbors with all aspects of fall prevention, now adding exercise and proven curriculum to improving quality of life. We are excited to offer MOB on top of our other services in fall prevention, including free home assessments, materials and equipment offered from our donation center, free community presentations for fall awareness, and home modifications to age-in-place,” said Share the Care’s Executive Director Heather Luna.
The Legislative Update and Community Conversation scheduled for Sept. 16 fulfills part of the commitment of Molly’s Angels to be part of the conversation on issues affecting Napa Valley seniors. According to Smith, the topics of the day will include:
- Implementation of the California Master Plan on Aging
- Older Adult Supportive Services
- Housing Affordability
- Transit Accessibility
- Potential changes to Social Security in the coming year
“These conversations are especially important for seniors, who deserve to understand the legislative efforts that may affect them and their families. As one of the fastest-growing segments of our population, seniors should take every opportunity to have their voices heard,” Smith explained, “A panel of well-informed representatives from our local legislative offices will be on hand to share updates and answer questions.”
Representatives from the offices of State Senator Christopher Cabaldon, Napa County Supervisor Anne Cottrell, a member of the California State Legislature, and senior advocates such as Tracy Krumpen, Anna Choteau and Yvonne Baginski are also anticipated to attend.
Smith said that Molly’s Angels participates in and holds positions with the Napa County Commission on Aging, Napa Connections, HAPI, the Elder Abuse Justice Task Force, Napa Valley Transportation Authority, the Paratransit Coordinating Council, COAD and the Behavioral Health Stakeholder Advisory Committee.
Known for providing transportation for those in need, Smith noted that in 2024 Molly’s Angels drivers hit the roads for more than 4,900 miles, which equals two round trips from Los Angeles to New York, and launched the Angel’s Express Van that drives seniors to locations such as the grocery store, library, farmers market and the Napa Town & Country Fair. The organization also held the Agape Food Drive and made over 5,400 calls to isolated seniors.
While RSVPs are not mandatory for the two September events in Yountville, they would be appreciated. Send an email to [email protected] or call the office at (707) 224-8971, which in a heartwarming nod to the group’s founder, Smith said was Molly’s home phone number.
