A core value for SCHC is that every older adult benefits from socialization. Together Today connects adults 55+ to prevent isolation and improve quality of life.
As we age, staying connected becomes increasingly important to our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Yet many older adults face challenges that limit their social interaction from family, mobility concerns, or changing life circumstances. Without regular connection and community, these adults may face social isolation, which can have serious health impacts. That’s why programs like Together Today are vital. More than just a social group, Together Today creates community, connection, and joy for adults 55+ living in Hamilton County.
Why Connection Matters
Did you know? According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 4 older adults experience social isolation, and its effects can be profound. Research shows that chronic loneliness is just as harmful to physical health as smoking 15 cigarettes per day. (Source: WHO)
Closer to home, the 2022 Hamilton County Behavioral Health Study and Plan found that from March 2020 to June 2022, loneliness and isolation was the top mental health risk category in the county. These findings highlight a growing need for programs that help adults 55+ remain socially connected.
While loneliness can impact anyone, regardless of their age, we know that aging adults face isolation at higher rates. It can be challenging to stay connected to loved ones, friends, and neighbors as you age due to decline in physical health, limitations on transportation, or even distance. SCHC works to help combat these barriers to socialization with all our programs, especially Together Today.
What is Together Today?
Together Today is a daily social program designed to bring older adults in Hamilton County together in a welcoming, supportive environment. It’s not just about passing time, it’s about preventing isolation, creating opportunities for socialization, and building a strong sense of community.
Each week, adults 55+ gather at various locations across the county from Monday to Friday. These free events offer a consistent routine and an open door to friendship, fun, and support. The program also provides nutritional support with free lunch at each location.
“When my daughter put us in touch with Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County, a whole new world opened up. If it wasn’t for SCHC we wouldn’t have gotten anything which we really appreciate because we really needed it.”– The O’Toole’s, Together Today participant
A Day at Together Today
Each gathering starts with something simple yet powerful: coffee and conversation. It’s time to catch up, share stories, and check in on one another. That’s followed by games, crafts, or group activities that spark joy and keep minds sharp. It’s common for our participants to break into smaller groups to play dominos or cards, as well as chat about their lives.
After the morning social time, a nutritious, delicious lunch is served. SCHC is grateful to many local community partners that donate lunch. There is no better way to connect with others than over a great meal, allowing more time for community-building. Lunch is always completely free of charge to help combat food insecurity in the older adult population.
The afternoons often feature presentations from community partners. For example, elder law attorneys share key information about legal considerations as you age, or healthcare partners present on healthy aging topics. These educational sessions are a secondary benefit to the program, sharing key aging resources and information to our participants.
If there is not a presentation, the participants will have a themed activities like music or movement. Our Together Today groups also often enjoy Bingo games after lunch with fun prizes. Our participants also help come up with activities they’d like to do with the group, which helps build community.
The routine and consistency of Together Today provides more than a schedule, it gives adults something meaningful to look forward to. Over time, what begins as a casual group quickly becomes a tight-knit network of people who care deeply for one another. The group members commonly check in on one another in between meetings or if someone missed a program day.
“”The people in this group are like family; I love them. I can’t say enough good things about them. The friendships I’ve made here are awesome.” – Pat Vickery, Together Today participant
More Than Just Socializing
While the program is full of engaging activities, its true impact lies in the connections formed and the sense of belonging that grows naturally. Participants celebrate life’s milestones together, offer support during tough times, and help each other navigate the ups and downs of aging.
“One of my favorite moments in the Together Today program is when we have gotten to celebrate a few of our participants’ 100th birthdays. It’s so much fun to honor their amazing lives and celebrate all they have accomplished,”—Lauren Guynn, Executive Director of SCHC
The environment is intentionally welcoming, inclusive, and energized by the shared belief that no one should age alone. Together Today creates a community where each person is seen, heard, valued and most importantly connected..
Accessible, Barrier-Free, and Free of Charge
One of the best things about Together Today is its accessibility. The program is completely free for all adults 55+ in Hamilton County. Transportation is available upon request, ensuring that physical limitations or lack of transportation don’t prevent anyone from participating.
Whether someone is newly retired, recently relocated, or simply looking to meet new people, Together Today is a barrier-free opportunity to reconnect with others and rediscover joy.
Our locations for the program are specifically designed to ensure that no one in Hamilton County has to travel more than 10-15 miles to attend our Together Today group at least one time per week. Each day of the week the group meets at a different location around the county to help improve access. Many of our participants attend the group more than one time per week because they enjoy the community and connections each different group offers.
Mondays offers Together Today Sheridan located at Spicewood Gardens clubhouse and Together Today Central located at Grace Church in Noblesville. Tuesdays offers Together Today Westfield at Cross Roads Church of Westfield. Wednesdays offers Together Today Carmel located at Orchard Park Presbyterian Church. Thursdays offers Together Today Fishers located at Christ the Savior Lutheran Church. Fridays offers Together Today Noblesville located at First Presbyterian Church.
The Power of Creating Community
At its core, Together Today is about creating community. It’s a reminder that meaningful relationships are possible at any age and that small, consistent efforts—like sharing a cup of coffee or attending a weekday gathering—can transform lives.
Socialization plays a vital role in maintaining cognitive function, emotional stability, and overall quality of life. And while social media and virtual meetings have their place, nothing replaces in-person connection. Programs like Together Today fill this gap in an intentional, meaningful way.
Get Involved
If you or someone you know could benefit from staying connected, visit the Together Today program page to learn more and see how to get started.
You can also explore the Together Today calendar on our website to find out who and what type of event/activity will be held at the different locations across the county.
“We would be happy to answer any questions you have about our Together Today program, as well as even connect you with one of our lead volunteers to help ensure you feel welcomed the first time you attend. Please reach out to us—we’d love you to join this amazing program,” –Lisa Albano, Director of Programs and Operations at SCHC.
If you or a local group or company would like to support Together Today, we’d love to connect. You can find out more about volunteering at the program, as well as all of SCHC’s volunteer opportunities here. We always welcome new community partners to support the program, so please reach out to SCHC for more information.
Other Local Opportunities to Stay Connected
Together Today isn’t the only way to stay connected in Hamilton County. Looking for even more ways to stay socially active? Here are a few great community resources to check out opportunities for social events:
- Town Planner: Stay updated on local events, including opportunities for aging adults in Hamilton County.
- Hamilton East Public Library: Offers book clubs, workshops, and other programs tailored for older adults looking to stay mentally engaged and socially active.
- Your local parks and recreation departments commonly offer senior and adult programs and events:
Final Thoughts
Together Today is more than just a program—it’s a movement toward aging well. Through coffee, conversation, and companionship, older adults are reconnecting with others in meaningful ways. In a world that can sometimes feel isolated, Together Today offers a warm, welcoming place where people are seen, supported, and celebrated.
It can be difficult to make the first step to connect with others, especially if you have been facing isolation for some time. Please know our Together Today team and participants are ready and willing to help you take the step. Reach out to SCHC and we’d be happy to talk you through the process.
If you believe in the power of connection and the importance of preventing isolation, spread the word. Because no one should age alone—and with Together Today, no one has to. Join us today!
