COA DIRECTOR Monthly Update

March 2026

March is a month of transition—where winter’s grip begins to loosen, daylight stretches a bit longer, and the first signs of spring stir something hopeful in all of us. With the promise of warmer days just around the corner, we find ourselves balancing between reflection and renewal. It’s a season for shaking off the chill, stepping into the light, and connecting with what inspires us, whether through laughter, learning, civic conversation, or simple joy.

February may be short, but it delivered a full month of joy, learning, and connection. Robert Rivest brought the laughter with the first in his three-part series, Laughter is the Best Medicine, a delightful mix of mime, improvisation, and uplifting moments that left the room smiling. We are already looking forward to The Art of Living Joyfully in March and How to Be Happy in Difficult Times in April. We explored wellness with a helpful session on vascular health and got festive with Mardi Gras Bingo, complete with beads and big laughs. From exchanging valentines at the Giving Hearts Social to sampling sweet treats at our Girl Scout Cookie Tasting, February was full of heart. We gathered for great food, good company, and another memorable Birthday Bash, proof that even the shortest month can leave a lasting impression.

One of the highlights of the month was our first COA Vision Chat, held on February 9. This relaxed, open conversation invited everyone to share what’s working, what could be better, and what they’d love to see at the Holbrook COA. We received fantastic ideas and thoughtful feedback that are already helping guide future plans. These chats also offer a space to voice concerns and ask questions—we’re here to listen and respond. Because community voices matter, we’ll be holding Vision Chats monthly moving forward. Please join us for the next one on Wednesday, March 18 at 10:00 AM.

March at the COA is blooming with civic energy, creativity, and joyful connection. Congressman Stephen F. Lynch will join us for an informal Coffee Hour at the COA, where he’ll speak with seniors about vital federal programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security and how they may be impacted by recent budget legislation. Senator John Keenan has long been a steadfast advocate for Councils on Aging across the Commonwealth, and his continued engagement with Holbrook’s seniors is deeply appreciated. We’re grateful to welcome his office back again this March, offering a chance for residents to ask questions, share feedback, and connect directly with a legislator who truly listens and takes action. Meet the Candidates gives you the chance to hear directly from neighbors running for local boards and offices. We will also host Democracy Renovation: On the Ballot, a timely program that invites discussion about the future of democracy in our communities. On St. Patrick’s Day, we’ll gather for lunch and music with the ever-popular Tim Van Egmond, sure to lift hearts and voices alike. Our Crochet Group returns, bringing a warm welcome and a place to create together. And yes, R&S Jamaican Restaurant and Golden Pacific will return with delicious lunches. Whether you come to learn, listen, laugh, or lead, this month offers something for every voice in our community.

We are thrilled to welcome Nora Tarbi as our new Activities Coordinator, bringing fresh energy, ideas, and heart to our programs. As we move through March, may we continue to find meaning in our connections and inspiration in the everyday. From lively conversations to quiet moments of creativity, each gathering at the COA reminds us that community is what carries us through the seasons, through the changes, and into what is next. Spring is on its way, and with it comes fresh possibilities. We are so glad to be on this journey with you.    

Holly