MCOA 2026 Photo Contest — Judges' Gallery

Story: Older adults and Cub Scouts came together to make bracelets, share stories, and enjoy one another’s company. As the activity unfolded, so did the conversations—people were learning from each other, sharing experiences, and discovering common ground. These intergenerational connections are so important to our community. Bringing people of all ages together helps build understanding, create meaningful relationships, and challenge the stereotypes and stigma often associated with aging. When generations connect, everyone has something to learn and something to share. What a wonderful reminder that community is stronger when we make space for all ages to come together, connect, and learn from one another.

Story: ☀️ Trailblazers Embrace Winter Adventure! 🌲 Six Trailblazer participants ventured out on a beautiful, sunny winter day to explore Wenakeening Woods and the adjoining trails in Medway. Winter can sometimes feel isolating, especially for older adults, but the Trailblazer Club is helping change that! Through outings like this, members have opportunities to get outside, stay active, enjoy nature, and most importantly, connect with others. The Trailblazer Club is more than just a group of people who enjoy getting out and about—it’s a community that helps combat loneliness and boredom while creating meaningful connections and new experiences. For older adults in Holliston, the club is opening the door to endless possibilities, new friendships, and adventures throughout the year. 🌿👟

Story: In “SwanseaCOA_JustDesserts,” you’ll see a delicious sampling of desserts made with love by our Swansea seniors! From volunteering to help serve to carefully selecting the perfect sweet treat, the joy was evident in every bite.

Story: The number of members playing Bocce at the Mashpee Active Living Center has grown dramatically since the court was installed last year, a wonderful example of how one new opportunity can spark connection, activity, and community. The Center offers so many services, programs, and opportunities that it would be impossible to capture them all in a single photograph. This image comes close, however, because it reflects so many important dimensions of everyday life at the Center: Connection & Companionship, Daily Activities & Programs, and Health & Wellness. I chose Connection & Companionship because, while it is not immediately apparent from the photograph, the Bocce League has inspired something even bigger: intertown competition and collaboration! Half of the people pictured are from a neighboring town, bringing new friendships, friendly competition, and a spirit of community across town lines.

Story: Life at the Worcester Senior Center changes for people as time goes on. Anna, once a very active, self-directed participant, started showing signs of dementia. Her confusion concerned staff and led to an important discussion with her son. A seamless transition for Anna, she joined the center's "A Time to Care Respite Program" affording her continued socialization with appropriate supervision. Elegant and friendly, Anna enjoys music, dancing, and Italian cuisine. She is always well-presented, carries herself with grace, and has a warm smile. She appreciates beauty and enjoys posing for photographs with confidence and charm. The wisteria in this photo is a prized example of the beauty found at our center, just as is Anna's dignity.

Story: Real moments define the Brewster Council on Aging, where life, energy, and community shine through five distinct frames. The first two photos capture the vital splash of our Aquatic Conditioning classes. Brewster proudly remains the only town on Cape Cod with a community swimming pool, serving as a lively hub for healthy wellness, fitness, and vibrant movement. Next, we connect deeply with nature. Two photos highlight our wonderful partnership with the Pleasant Bay Community Boating floating classroom. Out on the water, our active seniors embrace the wind, sun, and local marine ecology, proving that learning and outdoor adventure have no age limit. The final photo brings people together indoors. During a heartwarming afternoon of creative flower arranging, Brewster seniors and residents from the Cape Cod Post-Acute Care facility share bright smiles, stories, and the pure joy of creation. These real snapshots beautifully celebrate our enduring spirit and shared connection.

Story: Every Wednesday morning, a group of oil painters meet at the Kingston Senior Center and create beautiful pieces of art. They work in a window ladened room listening to soothing music and work mostly in silence, speaking only when they need to seek the advice and expertise of their instructor, a 94 year old Senior Tax Work Off participant. The time provides an opportunity for senior to express their creativity, and spend time with other artist who are supportive and encouraging. Every few months, the oil painters decorate the hallways of the Senior Center with their artwork for everyone to enjoy.

Story: Tai Chi is often called “meditation in motion”, and has many benefits including improved flexibility, strength, and balance. A loyal group of seniors attend a Tai Chi class at the Kingston Senior Center every week – practicing a series of slow, relaxed movements exercises that help with mobility and stability. This class is comprised of seniors of different ages and ability levels, and they support and encourage each other and celebrate small victories!

Story: Every Wednesday morning, a group of oil painters meet at the Kingston Senior Center and create beautiful pieces of art. They work in a window ladened room listening to soothing music and work mostly in silence, speaking only when they need to seek the advice and expertise of their instructor, a 94 year old Senior Tax Work Off participant. The time provides an opportunity for senior to express their creativity, and spend time with other artist who are supportive and encouraging. Every few months, the oil painters decorate the hallways of the Senior Center with their artwork for everyone to enjoy.

Story: In “SwanseaCOA_Full Plate Home Delivery,” COA Van Driver Eileen showcases the variety of items prepared for 10 Swansea seniors, including frozen foods, fresh produce, eggs, onions, and other pantry staples. Eileen and Andrea, our Transportation Coordinator, regularly deliver home-cooked meals and grocery items to seniors who are unable to travel due to mobility or accessibility needs. This service is about more than delivering food, it helps ensure that Swansea seniors have access to nutritious meals and essential groceries while allowing them to remain safely and independently in their own homes. For many, these deliveries provide not only nourishment, but also a friendly connection and reassurance that their community is there to support them.

Story: This summer, the Kingston Council on Aging held an intergenerational event which included a performance from Master Illusionist Lyn Dillies. This photo shows 7 year old Skyler assisting Lyn with one of her illusions that magically made a playing card appear inside of an orange that Skyler was charged with protecting. Seeing the excitement and wonder on the kids faces was a wonderful experience for their grandparents who brought them to the show!

Story: Sandy Phillips is the winner of our Kentucky Derby horse race game. She has a blowup hobby horse in her hands; in the game the contestant rolls a giant die and can move the number on the die. There is a gride on the floor of squares, so they are all equal steps. They all had so much fun playing this game during our Derby Luncheon. The pure excitement on Sandy's face says it all about our COA Community here in Rehoboth.

Story: Judy Rosa is our Drums Alive instructor and COA Volunteer. Judy is a retired nurse and teaches most of our fitness classes. Many of the classes she teaches are help fight against dementia and fall prevention. This particular day it was a warm day in May and many people came in for the Drums Alive class and room in our dining hall was limited. She made the decision to hold the class outside of the Senior Center. The participants were so excited to be outside in the warm spring air. They had such a ball while using their whole brains and coordination (not realizing they were doing this).

Story: Mark Rossi volunteers for our breakfast and lunches, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Mark will jump in as a Sous-Chef and do prep work, he will wash dishes, run food out to the tables and will even fill in when our chef is on vacation. This picture shows how much Mark enjoys being at the Rehoboth COA and how much he cares. The seniors enjoy Mark as well. If he isn't here, they are looking for him. Mar is a retired from the Rehoboth PD and enjoys being around people and helping out where he can. Mark has also been known to assist in an emergency situation. Mark is well known from being on the Police Force in Rehoboth and is known to the community so it fits that he would choose to volunteer with the COA and be involved in the senior community.

Story: Sandra and Dom Boragine are our snowbirds. They are here in Rehoboth from April to October and are such a fun couple. They love life and love to dance. They can always be seen together playing cards games, bocce or dancing. We love to hear their stories about their adventures and antics they have had over the years or ones they are planning. They were very excited to get dressed up (Dom in his Fancy Pants) for out Disco Dance Party and show off their best moves. Others were inspired by their dancing abilities and joined in.

Story: David and Arlene had always sat together on a daily basis along with several others. David was such a character and full of life. He always had a twinkle in his eye, and his quick wit was something magical. Arlene is full of life and is always welcoming the newest members to the longest members. She is at the Rehoboth COA daily talking with others or lending a helping hand. David must have said something to set Arlene into a fit of laughter. It was a great moment to have captured between two friends.

Story: Mark came to the Worcester Senior Center deeply intimidated by technology, but striving to learn and stay independent despite being challenged by a degenerative disease. Sessions with tech teacher, Jim, were often kicked off by Mark saying "What the heck is..." followed by: the internet, YouTube, email, online ordering, Zoom, etc. Over a couple of years working with Jim, Mark meticulously learned his tablet's features, slowly transforming a source of anxiety into a tool for connection. Jim was struck by the impact of their first Zoom and caught it in this photo. The moment he saw Jim’s face on the screen, Mark flashed the biggest, proudest smile imaginable. It is the face of pure joy, hard-won independence, and a barrier shattered. Mark’s triumph illustrates the amazing results of personal resilience when nurtured by the staff and senior center community.

Story: In “SwanseaCOA_TheGangsAllHere,” everyone is unboxing their LEGO kits and getting started! As the box says, they’re designed for ages 4–99, and this group is proving that LEGO fun is all ages!

Story: “SwanseaCOA_Taming a Jungle” showcases how a little seedling can grow into a thriving vegetable jungle! Here, Janet is tending to a cucumber vine that has been providing fresh produce to our seniors for the past several weeks.

Story: In the class, we learn basic techniques of using watercolor paints and each week, we take home a finished painting. It’s fun to see the variety of individual styles as seen in the harbor paintings.

Story: We hold an annual free book swap every fall at our Adult Center. We collaborate with our town Storrs Library’s book sale & get many donated books (large print too) for our swap. It’s a two day event, where members can bring up to 3 books & take up to 3 new others.

Story: Our Over Sixty Group sponsored a free Plant Swap in May. Members could bring a plant(s) & pick up a new one. At the end of the day, we were giving plants away. It was very fun!

Story: We had to increase attendee spots due to such high interest in our full body exercise Tuesday/Thursday classes both at 9am & 10am from 35 to 49 participants, while keeping within safety guidelines. A big hit at our Center!!

Story: Our performer involved some of the kids on stage to sing with her and they knew all the words!!

Story: The Swansea Seniors wanted to learn more about our Fitness Court installed at the Swansea Memorial Park. Swansea's Park and Recreation connected us with Fitness Court Ambassador Ryan who showed our seniors how to safely use the various equipment, including modifications based on individual abilities. It tied nicely with existing resistance band classwork and our walking club while allowing us to enjoy clean morning air at our local park. It was educational and ideas for future programs were born. Seniors demonstrated planking, squats, agility, and upper body exercises and encouraged one another. This event shows how welcoming and supportive the community is for Swansea Seniors.

Story: Sewing is a practical craft that transcends generations and cultures. Not everyone has the patience to use a sewing machine, but the sublime concentration showing on the faces of Addison, Christine and E. indicate they are in the "zone." The sewing classes at the Worcester Senior Center bring diverse people together for joint projects like quilts, as well as to master skills for an individual creating an item they yearn for, perhaps a dress like those from home in Africa. Sewing in not a lost art, nor must it be difficult to bridge generational and cultural differences, as beautifully illustrated in this photo.

Story: This photo captures the excitement of our kick-off rally for Walking to Los Angeles, a community wellness challenge that brought 35 older adults together with one shared goal. Using pedometers, participants tracked every step as we "walked" the 2,916 miles from Barre, Massachusetts, to Los Angeles. Their enthusiasm was contagious—they reached California a full month ahead of schedule and unanimously voted to turn around and walk home. Together they logged an incredible 5,832 miles. Each week we celebrated progress by recording everyone's miles, and along the journey participants learned about the landmarks and attractions we "visited." At the end, each walker received a personalized certificate recognizing their contribution and a scrapbook commemorating our cross-country adventure. It became far more than a fitness challenge—it built friendships, motivation, and a true sense of community.

Story: For ten months each year, the Bridgewater Council on Aging hosts an LGBTQ+ Seniors & Friends Luncheon, bringing together members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, caregivers, and friends to share a meal, build meaningful connections, and foster a welcoming sense of belonging. These gatherings provide a safe and inclusive space where friendships are formed, stories are shared, and everyone is celebrated for who they are. During Pride Month, we wanted to make the celebration extra special by welcoming six incredible drag queens to perform for our guests. Their energy, humor, and talent filled the room with laughter, joy, and applause. This photo captures more than a performance—it reflects our commitment to creating a community where every older adult feels seen, valued, respected, and proud to be exactly who they are

Story: At 86, lifelong Concord resident Philip B. Dee, Jr proudly served as Grand Marshal of the Town of Concord's Pride Celebration in June 2026. Growing up in Concord, Philip endured bullying and harassment simply for being his authentic self. Decades later, seeing the same community line the streets to celebrate and honor him was a powerful testament to how far our town has come. This photograph captures more than a parade—it tells a story of resilience, acceptance, and hope. Philip's journey reminds us that change is possible and that every person deserves to live openly, safely, and with dignity. His courage has become an inspiration to younger generations, showing them that authenticity, perseverance, and kindness can help shape a more inclusive future. Through Philip's example, the Concord Council on Aging celebrates the power of belonging and the importance of honoring LGBTQ+ older adults whose stories continue to inspire us all.

Story: Each summer several Dull Mens Clubs predominately from the eastern Massachusetts area senior centers gather for an Annual BBQ. The affair is hosted by one of the clubs. This photograph is taken on the front lawn of the Southborough Senior Center. A meal consisting of hot dogs, burgers, salads and desserts was prepared and served by club members. Attendees engaged in bocci, corn hole and raffles. The event provides an opportunity for men from many senior centers to "meet and greet" in area wide Connection and Companionship, Since the first club started at the Pembroke Senior Center over 10 years ago their popularity has now grown to more than a dozen clubs.

Story: Plummer Place, Home of the Northbridge Senior Center, recently hosted a successful intergenerational program called, "Growing the Generations," which brought together older adults from the community and members of a local Daisy/Brownie Girl Scout Troop. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for two generations to connect through a shared activity. Side by side, the Girl Scouts and older adults planted a colorful variety of flowers, creating not only beautiful planters but also meaningful conversations and lasting memories. As they worked together, conversations naturally blossomed. Participants exchanged stories of summers gone by and excitedly discussed adventures and plans for the summers ahead. Laughter filled the room as new friendships formed, proving that meaningful connections can flourish regardless of age!

Story: This activity arranged by Senior Center Dull Men's Club provided an opportunity for club Companions and their spouses to Connect in a very enjoyable sail around Salem Harbor aboard the schooner Thomas B.Lannon. Lunch and drinks were provided. Those who wished could even assist in hoisting the sails.

Story: What began more than five years ago as a small Osteoporosis Class at the Fairhaven Council on Aging has grown into a thriving program of more than 20 participants who meet three times each week, with new members joining regularly. While the class promotes strength, balance, bone health, and independence, its greatest success has been the friendships it has fostered. Participants encourage one another through life's challenges by sending get-well, holiday, and birthday cards, checking in on one another, and gathering outside the center. This photograph captures more than an exercise class—it reflects a caring community where older adults build meaningful connections, and support one another.

Story: The photograph of Mary and Carol, two of our amazing volunteers, sharing a laugh goes to show the value of connection for individuals at any age & how much fun volunteering can be at the COA. These two met at the COA through volunteering and now are the best of friends who check in on one another outside of the COA & even enjoy going out to lunch after volunteering. The photograph of our Mahjong players teaching the newbie goes to show the greatness of our participants. We are a welcoming community open to all including newcomers. We know people are often intimidated coming to the COA for the first time but we welcome newcomers with open arms offering tours & introductions to activities they might not have experienced prior.

Story: The Ukulele program started with funding from an annual art show, in memory of a youth volunteer who loved music and sadly passed away at age 19. Since then the group has grown and enjoy playing and laughing together every week. They have performed annually at the art show for the past two years and some have played for a few months, some for 60 years. This photos says so much about their joy and relief after their performance, as many were nervous about the show, and how connected they are as a group with laugher and companionship through music.

Story: What’s happening in this photo? This photo captures a milestone moment for the Brookline Council on Aging and Senior Center as staff and a Board Chair celebrate the arrival of a new electric vehicle dedicated to serving older adults. More than just a new van, it represents an investment in mobility, independence, and connection for Brookline seniors. Why does this new van matter? Transportation is one of the most important services we provide. For many older adults, getting from South Brookline to Coolidge Corner can be challenging, especially for those who no longer drive or have limited access to public transportation. This new electric vehicle helps bridge that gap, providing a reliable way for residents to access the Senior Center, shops, restaurants, medical appointments, and community activities. By making travel easier, the van helps reduce isolation and ensures that older adults can remain active participants in community life. It connects neighborhoods, people, and businesses. What does it say about the COA in the Brookline community? The new vehicle reflects the Council on Aging's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of older adults. It demonstrates that Brookline values aging well and recognizes that transportation is essential to health, social engagement, and quality of life. The investment also highlights the COA's role as a community connector—bringing people together, expanding access to services, and ensuring that all residents, regardless of where they live in town, can stay engaged and independent. Choosing an electric vehicle further shows a commitment to sustainability and thoughtful stewardship of community resources. This new EV is more than transportation—it is a symbol of Brookline's commitment to keeping previously disconnected older adults connected, independent, and engaged in the life of ALL of the town.

Story: When Mamma Mia speaks to your soul! Several participating members of our COA were so enthusiastic about the Old Rochester Regional High School's (our local HS) performance of Mamma Mia that they decided to come to yoga class the next morning in spirited outfits. Every year our local high school hosts our community's older adults (60+) for a private showing of their current dramatic play. Over 200 senior residents attend and this particular group of individuals were so impressed that they decided to dress the part the next day at yoga class. Never a dull moment here at the COA!

Story: In April, the Milano Center held a Project Runway event where members had to craft outfits using recycled medication bottles. The center recruited local celebrity judges and awarded prizes for most creative, best group, and audience choice. The audience and judges picked their favorites and winners were awarded tickets to see The Devil Wears Prada 2! It was a great event celebrating creativity, teamwork, and reusing materials that you cannot usually recycle.