Who’s That Lady

The ‘Lady’ Behind the Program

In her own words, here’s the scoop on how the program came about.

“I’m a retired school teacher and taught special education all my life. I asked for the emotional, most challenging class of them all.  I loved my job, enjoyed it tremendously.

When I retired, I kept going back to school. At the ripe age of 72, I decided I’m not going to go back anymore, but would if they called me.

I said, let me just go sign up with the Senior center -get some other activities going and be around people my age. So I came here to the West Philadelphia Senior Community Center and not left. It’s been a very rewarding and tremendous experience for me.

Going back during my graduate years, while my husband was transitioning, he was 20 years my senior, I wanted to take some seminary classes. That was always my dream if I had time. I went to Princeton, and while there, studied women of the Bible. Somehow, I winded up teaching women’s studies.

When I came to the Center, I found myself naturally talking about it – not that I was trying to find a job or volunteer. We were sitting around talking, and I looked at all the women in the whole center. I thought, there’s got to be a million stories here. And I’d love to hear them.

So I went to Julia, the activities director, and I told her about my thoughts. We came up with the title, Who’s That Lady – because each one of us has a story to tell.”

Lots of Stories to be Told

 

Ms. Whitney was right – there are lots of stories to be told. During each class, members introduce themselves and share something about themselves. Many are joyful, happy memories, nostalgia of childhoods and raising a family. Some are heart wrenching stories of pain, suffering and loss.

With her experience as a teacher and special training in trauma management, Ms. Whitney is very adept helping the class navigate any story, with grace, support and love.

 Give Today – Support this and other life changing programs at the Center.