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What if the future of aging isn’t tied to a physical place, but to the strength of a community? That’s the guiding vision behind the Village Movement, now celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Barbara Sullivan, National Director of the Village to Village Network, joined Varsity’s weekly Roundtable to explore how this grassroots model is reshaping the aging experience across the country. Villages empower older adults to remain in their homes, stay socially connected, and access critical support, all through member-driven networks that reflect the values and needs of their local communities.
AGING IN PLACE IS A MIDDLE-INCOME SOLUTION, NOT JUST A LUXURY
The village model was created to serve those caught in the “missing middle”—people who aren’t wealthy enough for private care but don’t qualify for public support. It’s a practical, community-driven way to age at home affordably.
THERE’S NO ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL VILLAGE—AND THAT’S A STRENGTH
Every village looks different because every community is different. From small social groups in urban neighborhoods to multi-thousand-member networks with staff and partnerships, villages flex to meet local needs.
PARTNERSHIPS BEAT SILOS—ESPECIALLY AFTER COVID
Villages are discovering new strength through collaboration with senior centers, housing providers, care organizations, and even Medicare Advantage pilots. The more they partner, the stronger their impact.
VOLUNTEER-FIRST DOESN’T MEAN UNDER-RESOURCED
Villages may be grassroots, but that doesn’t mean disorganized. Many have boards, staff, or structured partnerships, all while keeping volunteers at the core of their mission and services.
TECHNOLOGY ISN’T A BARRIER—IT’S A BRIDGE
COVID proved older adults can adapt. Villages that helped members use smartphones and telehealth tools saw lasting benefits in independence, connection, and care coordination.
DATA IS THE NEXT FRONTIER FOR GROWTH
With no major study since 2015, the new Village Impact Project aims to capture who’s being served, how, and where. That data will be key to shaping the movement’s next 25 years.
