By Forum Staff
On Thursday, DOROT, the nonprofit dedicated to combating social isolation and loneliness among older adults, announced unprecedented programming funds secured by U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) to boost intergenerational and peer activities by bringing an array of in-person and virtual workshops, discussion groups, and cultural opportunities, including programs in Mandarin, Russian and Spanish to residents of the 6th Congressional District in Queens.
“When I learned about DOROT, I knew I wanted to find a way to bring its innovative program model to my district,” Meng said. “I am thrilled that our older adults will be able to take advantage of the social community that DOROT builds through its in-person and online programs, and that everyone from teens to people 60-plus will enrich their lives through meaningful volunteer work and vibrant social community.”
As part of the grant, DOROT has hired two multilingual community outreach employees to connect with older adults and volunteers in Meng’s district. The outreach staff and DOROT project leaders have already created partnerships with community centers, public high schools, and local nonprofits in the district that work with older adults. Programs have begun with Commonpoint Queens and several organizations serving the Chinese American community.
Photo Courtesy of DOROT
Congresswoman Meng and DOROT Executive Director Meridy celebrate the boost in funding.
“The U.S. Surgeon General recently issued a first-ever report describing the epidemic of loneliness in this country,” said Mark Meridy, executive director of DOROT. “The problem is particularly difficult for older adults who often have fewer opportunities to connect with community and build social connections. That’s why this initiative is such an opportunity for DOROT, because it will allow us to bring our unique program model to Queens, offering engaging activities that connect older adults to each other and to people of all ages. We are immensely grateful to Congresswoman Meng for championing the needs of older adults in her community and on Capitol Hill.”
DOROT, which is the Hebrew word for “generations,” grew dramatically during the pandemic and now serves 5,835 older adults, a 65-percent increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. In the last fiscal year (July 2022 – June 2023), the agency grew an additional 3 percent over Fiscal Year 2022. This was made possible by the efforts of 6,962 volunteers (9 percent more than in FY 2022) who dedicated 47,459 hours of service.
