In Sullivan, Wayne and Pike counties, scenic roads wind through our forests, farmland and small towns. These rural areas are rich in natural beauty—and home to a growing population of older adults who want nothing more than to age with dignity, independence and connection.

But in communities where neighbors are often miles apart, public transportation is scarce, and assisted living options are few, growing older at home can quickly become complicated. That’s where Growing Older Together (GOT) steps in—not just as a service organization, but as a vital support system.

Aging in place, with a little help

Aging in place is the goal for many, but it requires more than a roof and good intentions. GOT helps bridge the gap by offering transportation to appointments, simple home maintenance, friendly social visits and tech help—provided by local volunteers who understand the area and the people they serve. One member put it simply: “Without GOT, I’d be isolated. Now I feel seen and supported.”

Filling a critical need

Over 50,000 people aged 60-plus live in these three counties, yet services that cater to this demographic remain limited. GOT’s member/volunteer-driven model is uniquely suited to meet this need—it’s nimble, local and deeply personal. And as the senior population continues to grow, so does the urgency. GOT saw a 20 percent growth in both members served and volunteers in 2024, a trend that continues into 2025.

Access for all

GOT believes every older adult deserves connection and care, regardless of their income. That’s why the organization increased its sponsorship program, now covering membership dues for a larger set of individuals who otherwise couldn’t afford it. Sponsorships aren’t just a financial boost—they’re a lifeline to transportation, companionship and the confidence that comes from knowing someone has your back.

More than a mission—a movement

GOT isn’t just helping seniors: It’s building a community where aging is supported, celebrated and shared. Through partnerships with local agencies, expanded outreach and a growing team of compassionate volunteers, GOT is proving what’s possible when rural communities rally around their older residents.

Because independence doesn’t mean going it alone, and in these hills and hollows, that truth has never mattered more.

Interested in becoming a GOT member or volunteer?  Call our hotline at 570/630-0509 or visit www.growingoldertogether.org to learn more. 

Thomas Cambridge is the executive director of Growing Older Together.