WATCH: Community Conversations: Exploring Black History
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s (PCA) efforts to support Black History Month events at senior centers across the city was spotlighted on 6abc’s Art of Aging segment, a news series that connects adults with various resources throughout the region. Around 30 older adults gathered at Center in the Park for a special presentation for Black History Month, talking about clips from the movie “Selma” – an historical drama based on the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches.
Cleo L. Smalls, the Center Director, emphasized the opportunity for older adults to talk about memories and things that they have experienced, and hopefully educate younger generations. Mark Kendrick, African & Caribbean Elder Initiative Coordinator for PCA, highlighted the importance of such events, providing a platform for older adults to socialize and reflect on the importance of community, contributing to the overall mission of extending the lives of older adults and ensuring independence.
Retired teacher Don Hackney leads a program titled “African American History and Its Effects on Today” twice a month at Center in the Park in Germantown, as part of Black History Month celebrations in senior centers across Philadelphia. The initiative aims to foster community connections among older adults and explore cultural heritage.
Through discussions and special presentations, participants engage in learning and reflection. This program, supported by the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, provides older adults with opportunities for friendship, learning, and social engagement.
Click the link below to watch the full segment:
Art of Aging: Retired teacher Don Hackney leading Black history program at Center in the Park
