GLEN MILLS, PA – What are the factors that can influence someone over age 55 to volunteer his or her time and talent to a worthy cause in the community? That’s the central question behind a research project currently underway that’s being led by the Delaware County Community Foundation (DCCF), in conjunction with the County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA). Maris Grove residents have been asked to participate in this ongoing study.

To get answers, DCCF Executive Director Rick Anthony invited Maris Grove residents to participate in discussion groups this week. Participants in each session were asked to give their opinions about different aspects of civic engagement, which DCCF describes as, “actions wherein adults, 55 and older, participate in activities of personal or public concern that are both individually life enriching and socially beneficial to the community. Civic engagement can take many forms, from individual volunteerism to paid part time or full time work.”

Titled “Redefining Middle Age,” the research project is designed to test the validity of the assertion that the “middle-age and older population in Delaware County is a vital resource whose experience, knowledge, skills and wisdom are being used for the benefit of virtually every aspect of community life, whether in paid or volunteer capacities,” says Anthony.

“A number of factors influence the ability and motivation of older adults to become engaged in civic activities or to pursue entrepreneurial or employment opportunities in the private or public sectors,” Anthony adds. “Among them are: housing, physical and emotional well being, family status and support, financial security, access to opportunity, education and training, sufficient information, transportation, social connectivity, self esteem, peer support, recognition and prejudice or discrimination. Working with the staff of COSA, we are examining as many of these factors as possible to remove impediments to older adults fully participating in community life.”