EngAGE Blog

EngAGE has encouraged creative expression since our earliest days, and this entertaining show is a perfect example of that. “Radio Cavalcade” is a one-hour, 1940s-style radio extravaganza presented live on September 17, 2005, at the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Theater in North Hollywood, CA. The following week, it was broadcast on KPFK-FM on Good for Life, our radio show’s name before it became Experience Talks. The Cavalcade was sponsored by More Than Shelter for Seniors (our name before we became EngAGE) and was hosted by Rebecca Novick. The cast ranged in age from 50 to 85, many performing for the first time. Special guests included actor Len Lesser, who was best known as Seinfeld’s Uncle Leo; show biz legend Rose Marie; and character actor/host Richard Erdman, who appeared in over 160 films and TV shows during his long career; and a terrific live band! Enjoy! (FYI: We’re having difficulty getting the video to start at the beginning, so you may have to rewind a few minutes.)

In 2016, EngAGE began delivering our signature programming Minneapolis, MN, during a tenure that continued for over two years. Our first offering was a 10-week storytelling class in partnership with CommonBond Communities, the affordable housing developer, in its Riverview Senior Housing community in Minneapolis. “The Power of Storytelling,” which explored the power of personal storytelling, was taught by T. Mychael Rambo, a regional Emmy Award-winning actor, vocalist, arts educator, and community organizer. It culminated in the “Artfully Aging RadioHour” project, a performance by participants in two live shows in January of 2017, at the Pillsbury House + Theatre in Minneapolis, recorded for radio broadcast and podcast.

The “Artfully Aging Radio Hour” was a collaboration between EngAGE’s “Experience Talks” radio show, Common Bond Communities, Pillsbury House + Theatre, Hippocrates Café, and Aroha Philanthropies. It was co-directed by Pillsbury House + Theatre’s Faye Price, and instructor T. Mychael Rambo. Dr. Jon Hallberg of the Hippocrates Café served as host of the event. Actors (including instructor T. Mychael) were called in to perform the pieces created by students who declined to appear on stage. ~ Enjoy!

We successfully transitioned the EngAGE Heartland programs to our two development partners there: CommonBond and Good Samaritan. Those partners continue to provide EngAGE programs in multiple communities.

For 25 years, our Program Directors have been the on-the-ground team members who make sure that classes and events that appeal to residents are delivered to them. We are always delighted when we receive letters and emails from residents that show their appreciation. Thanks to EngAGE Program Director Arnold for #MakingADifference at Piedmont Senior Apartments. A resident submitted this glowing written review which we received via Legacy Partners, the management company for that community:

“The 5 star review is for Arnold Schmidt, our Activities Director. He is an absolute gem. I have been living here at the Piedmont for over 22 years. Have seen several Activities directors come and go. None hold a candle to Arnold. He is kind, caring, and very insightful as to what activity is needed for the benefit of the residents. Frankly, Arnold deserves his budget to be increased…. Again, 5 stars for Arnold*” ~ Ilene