From the CEO

"Our CHEER Centers buzz with energy - filled with the kind of community that improves not just our moods, but our overall health and well-being."

There’s something special about the shift from summer to fall. The air feels just a little softer, the sunlight a little more golden. September always feels like a second spring — a chance to start fresh, come together, and reconnect.

Years ago, when I was growing up, Trap Pond was the place to go in the summer instead of the beach. I remember swimming in the pond (back when that was still allowed!) and paddleboating with friends until our arms were sore and the sun was setting. Those days are long gone, but I still carry the joy of that togetherness – the easy laughter, the shared meals, the breeze through the trees.

That’s why I love September at CHEER. It’s a time of reconnection. With the busyness of summer winding down, our CHEER Centers buzz with energy — filled with the kind of community that improves not just our moods, but our overall health and wellbeing.

Social isolation can be just as harmful as chronic illness. But at CHEER, every time you walk through the door, someone is happy to see you. Every meal shared, every game played, every song sung — they all add up to something more than just fun. They build resilience, lift spirits, and remind us that we are not alone.

This September, we invite all seniors to join us for one of our favorite events of the year: the CHEER Trap Pond Fall Festival – happening Friday, September 5th at Trap Pond State Park in Laurel.

There will be music, dancing, food, games, and plenty of laughter under the trees. Old friends will be reunited and new friendships will form. If you’ve never been, this is the year to come. And if you’ve been many times before – welcome back!

Worried about transportation? Don’t be. CHEER’s transportation services are here to help. Our handicap accessible buses will provide rides for CHEER Members to and from the festival and to our CHEER Centers and even back to your home. All you have to do is call your local CHEER
Center Director. It’s one more way we’re removing barriers so everyone has the chance to participate.

CHEER Centers throughout Sussex County offer nutritious meals, engaging programs, and daily opportunities to stay active and social – all in a welcoming, supportive environment. For many, these centers are lifelines. For all of us, they’re reminders that aging doesn’t mean shrinking back from life – it means leaning in with purpose and joy.

If you’ve been feeling a little stuck at home or haven’t been to a CHEER Center in a while, let September be your nudge. Come for a delicious meal. Come for a class. We have a lot of new
ones with our CHEER Academy. Come for the company. Call for a ride – we’ll come get you.

You have a seat at the table and you are wanted here. The season is changing and with it comes the chance to bloom again. As author Brene Brown reminds us: “Connection is why we’re here. It is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.”

Here’s to coming together, again and again.