Juanita C. Grant Foundation

Founded in 2014, the Juanita C. Grant Foundation (JCGF) is a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit, community-based organization located in Prince George’s County, Maryland. JCGF’s mission is “to strengthen communities by building solution-focused programs across the lifespan of older adults, ensuring everyone has access to purpose, protection, and possibility as we age.” The founding 5-member board conducted two years of research and outreach to determine the area of need that would create a positive impact for Prince George’s County residents. Through interviews with County agencies and advocates, budget and statistical analysis, we developed three core programs. The Village Connector Experience (VCE) is a nationwide, structured outreach program supporting older adults who self-identify as socially isolated. Participants receive friendly calls 1–3 times per week from certified VCE Ambassadors, each of whom has completed 16 weeks of specialized training. During these calls, Ambassadors collect data to track members’ progress in strengthening social connections with friends and family ultimately helping them develop the skills and confidence to overcome loneliness. VCE is now expanding to include co-generational and intergenerational programs that bring older and younger people together for intentional, meaningful, and sustainable activities designed to build lasting relationships and eradicate social isolation. The Guardians in Action: Training to Prevent Elder Abuse & Financial Exploitation program is a transformative initiative designed to dismantle inequitable systems that have historically failed marginalized older adults. Elder abuse and fraud disproportionately affect those who face systemic barriers, including ageism, poverty, immigration status, racial and ethnic discrimination, sexual orientation bias, and disability-related challenges. Many confront language barriers, mistrust in institutions, and limited access to legal or financial support. Our program centers empower