Del Mar Community Connections (DMCC) is a volunteer-driven organization incorporated in 2000 providing programs and services that help maturing residents live safely, vibrantly, and independently in the homes they love. With a 15-member volunteer Board of Directors and more than 80 volunteers, two full-time staff employees, and four part-time employees, DMCC is able to achieve their mission of supporting the Del Mar senior population. They provide transportation options that include Sassy Chassis van outings, Foxy Flyer wheelchair rides, and essential appointment volunteer transportation. They enrich the lives of older adults through the Adapting to Life Transitions support group, Page Turners Book Talk group, Singing Together singalongs, How the Internet Can Work For You class, and many other regular activities. They encourage continuing education and socialization for seniors of all ages by hosting the Health and Wellness Premiere Speaker Series, marquee lectures on topics such as fall prevention and scam prevention, and several annual Social and Good Times events such as Valentine’s Day Chocolate and Champagne open house. They help to fulfill basic needs by hosting an annual flu shot clinic, through meal programs such as Tuesday Lunch Connections and making free loans of medical equipment.
DMCC adapted their services during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect and meet the needs of older adults by offering friendly check-in calls, grocery and cleaning supply delivery, and social connection through Zoom meetings. DMCC regularly collaborates with the Braille Institute to assist seniors with low vision, the Alzheimer’s Association – San Diego/Imperial Chapter to educate seniors about dementia, and many Del Mar-based community organizations to promote local wellbeing, such as the Del Mar Foundation, the Del Mar branch of San Diego County library, and Helping Hands. DMCC’s involvement in the San Diego County Volunteer Driver Coalition and the San Diego Seniors Community Foundation exemplify commitment to collective impact.
Looking forward, DMCC plans to advocate for improved accessibility in the City of Del Mar, create more opportunities for intergenerational community initiatives, and train staff and key volunteers in CPR.
