Local nonprofit Partners In Care invites community members in Central Oregon to its engaging, in-person education series. For the past 17 years, Partners In Care has been providing no-cost community education on a myriad of topics such as preparing for end of life, facing a serious illness and caregiver tips and resources.
The fourth community education class of 2025 is on the topic of “Active Aging in Central Oregon.” This class is presented at no cost on Wednesday, August 6, from noon to 1pm in the Wyatt Room at Partners In Care in Bend. Lunch will graciously be provided at no charge by Touchmark at Pilot Butte starting at 11:45am.
In this class, community members will learn how staying active promotes strength, independence and emotional well-being throughout the aging process. This presentation is designed for both older adults and those who support them, offering inspiration and practical tools to stay healthy and engaged. It will be an uplifting and informative session featuring local resources, inclusive recreation options and real-life stories that show how movement can help us thrive at every stage of life.
Our presenters will be David Seck, DPT and Co-Owner of Spark Rehab and Wellness and Kristine McConnell, Sr. VP of Programs and Operations at Visit Central Oregon. David will explain the science of aging and offer practical strategies for improving mobility and quality of life. Kristine brings over 20 years of experience in regional tourism and will share how inclusive recreation is being expanded across Central Oregon. Together, they bring valuable perspectives on how community, innovation and care can support active aging. The event will also feature Geoff Babb, a local stroke survivor and creator of the AdvenChair, who brings a powerful personal story of resilience and outdoor innovation.
“I’m especially excited about this presentation because it celebrates the strength, resilience and potential of older adults in our community. It’s about more than just staying active — it’s about preserving dignity, fostering independence and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to age with purpose,” said Simeon Rose, Partners In Care Community Relations Specialist.
Community Education classes will be offered quarterly. Future classes will be shared on the Partners In Care website at www.partnersbend.org/community-education/.
RSVPs are encouraged. Call 541-706-1335 or email communityevents@partnersbend.org to RSVP. Parking available at 2611 NE Courtney Drive, Bend.
About Partners In Care:
Partners In Care is a local, independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving a 10,000 square mile region of Central Oregon. It is now the leading provider of hospice, home health, and palliative care in the region, with over 200 staff members and nearly 200 volunteers. In addition to community Hospice care in homes, facilities, and Hospice House, Partners In Care also provides: Home Health in the patient’s home or care facility; Palliative Care symptom management and support; a non-medical case management program called Transitions; and Grief Support for adults and children experiencing a loss.
Partners In Care has achieved a five-star hospice and home health rating from patient and family surveys through CMS in 2024. The nonprofit is also a five-star We Honor Veterans national hospice partner (one of only three in the whole state of Oregon), selected by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization as a leader in caring for veterans’ unique needs at end of life. Partners In Care was also chosen by the Central Oregon community as the Bend Bulletin’s ‘Best of Bend’ hospice for 2024.
partnersbend.org • 541-382-5882
