In Rhode Island–and beyond–there exists a largely untapped group of individuals armed with life experience, wisdom and curiosity. These older adults offer a fresh perspective and potential to help tackle some big challenges we face at every stage of life. What if there were a dedicated outlet empowering them to examine, collaborate and solve some of RI’s top civic issues like health care, housing and transportation? What if we could empower seniors with a thirst for knowledge, a passion to help others, and a motivation to make a difference do something they love with a purposeful focus?
Recognizing this untapped potential, Leadership Rhode Island (LRI) in partnership with Age-Friendly Rhode Island, launched the Senior Fellows Program to bring the idea into action. As an intentional “convener” of Rhode Island residents aged 62 and older, the program brings diverse perspectives together to drive collective progress on civic issues that impact seniors–and ultimately all of us.
“There are people and resources in all three sectors who don’t know one another and haven’t had the opportunity to connect,” said Lyanh Ramirez, Leadership Development Manager at Leadership RI. “At the same time, there are civic-minded older adults with wisdom and experience who, by learning about these resources, can not only benefit from them but also help bridge the gap—connecting others and strengthening our communities.”
And that is exactly what the LRI Senior Fellows Program has been doing. For the past two years, LRI has run an 8-week course designed to ignite civic engagement among older adults. The 2025 cohort will be the program’s third cohort since its launch in 2023. For most participants, graduating from the program is just the beginning. Alumni leave with a new sense of purpose and motivation to take a more active role in shaping policy, advancing research and improving communities. Their efforts help empower policy makers to make more informed decisions while ensuring Rhode Islanders have the resources they need to help enhance their lives.
“One of our alumni had never really thought about what aging could mean. After graduating from the program, he discovered a passion for empowering seniors and is now leading efforts to bring The Village Common community-based network of support to older adults to Narragansett, “ Ramirez said.
Other alumni have found meaningful ways to contribute as well. Some have volunteered with PACE, engaging in activities like playing games and fostering social interaction with participants. Others have used their skills in grant writing to support programs for individuals living with dementia. Several have even joined forces with RI AARP, working on initiatives such as identity theft awareness to help educate and protect older adults.
What makes this intergenerational Leadership Rhode Island group so special is the way they rethink aging–not as an endpoint–but a stage of life filled with possibility and purpose.
“There is a palpable energy among the Senior Fellows, facilitators, and partnering organizations who come together to solve challenges,” Ramirez said, a testament to LRI’s role as a convener, fostering collaboration and meaningful impact. “People are living longer and redefining how they engage and find meaning, and our program offers a compelling opportunity to do just that.”
The Rhode Island Senior Fellows program is generously funded by Age-Friendly Rhode Island and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island, making it tuition free for class members. To find out more about the LRI Senior Fellows program and how to enroll, visit the Leadership RI website or call 401.273.1574 .Helen Hames is a Certified Senior Advisor and the Founder of Age Ambassador, where she helps families navigate the complexities of aging–whether at home or transitioning to senior living. Based in Newport, RI, Helen has extensive experience serving families across Rhode Island. Learn more at AgeAmbassador.com.
