December 2024
Next takes pride in offering programming that is unique, educational and inspiring while ensuring accessibility for all that want to participate.
In the next year, we will continue our Making Connections -- Cultural Series by exploring different countries and regions around the world through speaker presentations, religious studies, music, cuisine, art and travel. These opportunities are not just for those able to attend in person, but also for our numerous Support Service clients, who for a variety of reasons, may not be able to come to Next.
Next will work with community members that participate in the Meals on Wheels program, the Next transportation Program or residents that are already a Support Service client. Many of these residents have challenges that make venturing from home very difficult. This is a vulnerable community group that can easily feel isolated leading to loneliness and depression.
In collaboration with our support service providers, program coordinators and volunteers, Next will provide several alternative ways to participate in the Cultural Series. Through outreach, home visits, easy to follow art projects, readings and materials brought directly to each resident, we hope to engage and connect with members of our Birmingham community that are susceptible to feelings of isolation.
Through our Cultural Series, Next aims to connect our community to lesser known regions of the world, highlighting cultural heritage, historical resources and the study of the human experience.
For example, first in the New Year we will look at the complexities of the African continent. Africa is home to over 200 languages and cultures and has one of the fastest growing populations by continent with some regions still governed by France, Spain and Portugal as dependent states. Fifty-four countries each with their own economies, exports and governments — there is much to learn and understand about this vast continent.
With a layered approach, we will take advantage of the many valuable resources throughout the area. Building on Black History Month in February, Next will work closely with the Charles Wright Museum of African American History for educational programming, with The Detroit Institute of Arts as we take a behind the scenes look at “In Our Own Voice” that examines the creative contributions of African Americans from the 19th century to the present day and explore issues of race, gender, politics and culture. We will work with Oakland University’s Humanities Department to present comprehensive lectures on the current multiplicities of Africa and gain a better understanding of the significant impact The African Diaspora has had on the world.
Like all our Cultural Series, our academic studies will be enhanced through day trips, cuisine, musical presentations and local theatre.
All this, along with our regular programming, in just the first quarter of 2025!
Next is proud to offer special programming that encourages different points of view and challenges our thinking — while including our entire community, even those who are unable to come to Next.
We recognize that a society is only whole when all its members have the opportunity to contribute, to be seen, and to be valued.
To learn more about Next, a 501(c3) providing essential senior services to Birmingham residents, please visit Birminghamnext.org.
Cris Braun is Executive Director of Birmingham Next
