Empowering Philadelphia’s older adults through community and care
Every older adult deserves to age with dignity, surrounded by a community that supports their needs and values their contributions. For thousands of Philadelphians, this vision becomes a reality through the work of Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s (PCA’s) Community Engagement Department. From connecting older adults with essential resources to combating loneliness with innovative programs, PCA’s Community Engagement team serves as a support network for Philadelphia’s older adults.
At the helm is Wanda Mitchell, whose blend of professional expertise and personal caregiving experience has shaped programs that touch lives in profound ways.
Mitchell, who is also a caregiver, brings both professional expertise, built from over 25 years of experience at the agency, and personal insight to her role. She helps to shape programs that address the practical needs of older adults, as well as the emotional realities of caregiving. Her experience as a caregiver informs her empathetic approach to the services PCA offers, fostering a compassionate connection with the community.
“As a caregiver, I learned firsthand the challenges families face in balancing care with compassion,” Mitchell said. “That experience drives my passion to create programs that meet both the practical and emotional needs of our community.”
Among PCA’s core programs is providing supportive services, including information and referrals, to older adults. The Community Engagement team serves as a primary point of contact for older Philadelphians seeking advice on a wide range of aging services, from senior centers to food and nutrition to wellness programs. Staff guide individuals toward resources for transportation, health care, social services and other essential supports, offering trusted advice for families and caregivers alike. This often includes connecting families to PCA’s educational workshops that address relevant topics, including health and wellness, caregiving and companionship. By meeting community members where they are — both geographically and in terms of need, the team reaches a diverse group of Philadelphians.
Mitchell’s personal caregiving experience is especially evident. Mitchell’s perspective brings a unique level of empathy to all of Community Engagement’s programs, creating a support network that helps caregivers in the community maintain both high quality of care for their loved ones and resilience for themselves.
Senior Community Centers, which are managed by Community Engagement, provide a one-stop-shop for older adults’ physical and mental needs. Activities from exercise and health workshops to arts and crafts classes occur under the same roof. Counseling, connection to benefits and daily meals are also provided at these centers.
PCA’s Community Engagement Department also combats social isolation, a major challenge faced by many older adults, through its Senior Companion Program. This initiative matches volunteers with older individuals who may be feeling isolated, offering them a chance to stay engaged in their communities and avoid loneliness. Companions meet with their matches regularly, sharing activities and companionship that enhance the quality of life for both parties. For many participants, the program offers more than just company – it provides a meaningful connection that benefits their mental and emotional health.
Staff actively engage the community where they are, setting up tables at more than 350 outreach events each year. The department also connects with older adults through diverse advisory councils, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed. These efforts foster collaboration among community members, service providers and older adults to build a stronger, more inclusive city.
“Listening to the voices of older adults and their families is at the heart of what we do,” Mitchell said. “By engaging directly with the community, we ensure our programs truly address their needs and make a meaningful impact.”
Essential needs, such as food security, housing and financial support, are another critical focus of PCA’s Community Engagement Department. The team helps older adults gain access to meal programs, housing assistance through the Domiciliary Care Program and other services, providing a lifeline to those who may be experiencing economic or mobility challenges. This level of support ensures that older Philadelphians have access to the necessities they need to live safely and comfortably.
“When older adults struggle with basic needs, like housing or food, their quality of life suffers,” Mitchell said. “Our job is to provide a lifeline, ensuring they have the stability and support they deserve.”
Through the compassionate leadership of Wanda Mitchell, PCA’s Community Engagement Department has become an invaluable support system for Philadelphia’s aging population. By focusing on education, companionship, advocacy and essential resources, the department ensures that older Philadelphians can navigate the challenges of aging with resilience, dignity and a strong community of support.
For information or referrals to services and programs, contact the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040. General inquiries are answered Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional resources and details are available on PCA’s website at pcaCares.org.
