'Forever Young' - the tune that still inspires at Age Concern
Bob Dylan famously sang about being Forever Young and that is an ethos Age Concern Stourbridge & Halesowen stand by for its many users - many of whom were small toddlers when it first hit the airwaves.
The song, which was released in 1974, is often interpreted as a simple wish for enduring youth and the continued enjoyment of life no matter of age. Age Concern Stourbridge and Halesowen enriches the lives of local people aged 50+ by encouraging them to socialise more, get out and about, meet new people, be more active and stay healthy. They offer help, advice (including welfare and financial) and a friendly face but unfortunately the charity needs regular donations to operate.
The charity receives no government or local authority funding and relies upon fundraising through its own events and activities; its successful Elton Centre cafe; ad hoc small donations from large organisations (via an application process) and fundraising events. Only a couple of staff are employed with most individuals giving up their free time as volunteers to help the charity thrive.
David Harbach, chair of trustees commented: “The song, Forever Young was released just a year before our charity was first set up and it could be viewed as a theme tune for groups such as our own. Initially Age Concern Stourbridge & Halesowen was a safe haven for older people but today older people wish to continue to enjoy their lives - staying active, making new friends and remaining forever young!
“Our council funding was stopped, like many other charities, when the authority first started to encounter financial difficulties so we now have to rely on other sources - such as bid money, our cafe, and holding clubs and activities. One of our mainstays of financial gathering is via donations from users and their family and friends - such kind contributions help us to continue providing services.
“We have many ways individuals can support our charity by donating, such as Just Giving, fundraising activities - such as sponsored events and gifts in wills. Every little counts and provides an older person with a much needed lifeline for continued enjoyment of life.”
To donate individuals can go to the Just Giving website, get in touch by calling 01384 390065 or emailing acshstourbridge@gmail.com or visiting us at the Elton Centre (St Johns Road, Stourbridge). Individuals can also consider leaving a Gift In Wills donation as a legacy following a death.
All monies raised are used to continue the charity’s invaluable work.
