So we are now recording. When I ask the questions, you can say a part of the question in your response, or you can just respond directly. But as I mentioned, we are going to get started with allowing you to introduce yourself. So I'll have you say your name, and I'll also have you share just a little bit about your background. I know you talked about where you grew up. You can go into background, how you grew up, or interests that you have. So whenever you're ready.
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Al M. - Participant
ADS Evidence Based Programs
Al M. - Participant
A
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Al
00:00 Became headhunter; love vibrant Milwaukee city. 03:45 Discussing programming for older adults in Milwaukee.
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“And that's how I got into headhunting, because after six months having these guys in my class at south campus, MATC, well, now I got to find. Oh, I got to find them a job now.”
“And I want to be able to be able to age in place, which means I want to be able to keep driving.”
“For me, to stay vibrant is to learn how to balance exercises, which means I could stand up straight, not always have to use my cane or a walker.”
“I like driving, get where I want to go. And it's doing the strength exercises to be able to do the balance.”
“And I have a brother in law who has Parkinson's, and Jose, that's such a thing on channel ten in regards to the exercises that people who have Parkinson's have to do every single day in order to keep moving.”
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Okay. My name is Al. I'm a journeyman tool and die maker. This served a five year apprenticeship through the state of Wisconsin. I also worked as a headhunter. In between jobs, I also taught at MATC. I taught part time nights, and I also taught full time machine shop to american motors. Laid off people for tra to train them as machine operators to work safely in industry.
And that's how I got into headhunting, because after six months having these guys in my class at south campus, MATC, well, now I got to find. Oh, I got to find them a job now. So that's how I got into that. And then eventually I got into it full time as a headhunter. I worked for two, actually, for three headhunting organizations here in Milwaukee. And I love Milwaukee. I feel that it's a real gem in that it's very important for Wisconsin. Milwaukee has to be a viable city, regardless of what other people think.
And I'm staying right here in Milwaukee county. I'm retiring in place. We're staying in Greendale, and we plan on living here as long as we can, as long as I'm physically able. My wife also. We're not going to Florida. Iowa. It's a place to visit. Never want to live there.
No, thank you.
Now to that. What is your favorite thing about living in Milwaukee County? I know you mentioned you live in Greendale, so you can either talk about Greendale specifically or Milwaukee county in general.
The reason I came, we moved out from. We moved from Holy Hill, Hubertus. I was sick and tired of septic systems and well water because it was never. The quality is not there in the water. And septic systems, they're very costly and they take up a lot of land. I wanted something sewer and water. That's why I went into. Came into Milwaukee county.
And because of the school system and availability of the different things that are going on in Milwaukee, we did a lot of planetarium things at UWM. My wife graduated from UWM. She was consequently, I met her at MUw Madison. She was in pre med, my sons went. One son went to Uw Milwaukee. And that's why we. And there's a lot of jobs here, being a genuine tool and die maker. I was an apprentice journeyman.
I was an apprentice tool, and I die maker. But I journeyed. I could go to different companies and work and learn and learn something about things new. And I kept track. They kept track of me. Charlie Nye, who was the head of the apprenticeship division in Madison, I met him personally. He said, al, he said, just let us know where you land so we can keep track of your hours. Actually not.
It was time, because I was a five year apprenticeship, regardless of whether I worked 40 hours a week or 70 hours a week. And I mostly work 60 hours a week. So I learned more than a standard journeyman, tool and die maker. But I wanted to know something, and nobody could give me any smoke, smoke and mirrors.
Now, to that, you mentioned Milwaukee, and I agree with this. I'm born and raised in Milwaukee, so Milwaukee county also has my heart, I would say there's a lot to do, and I think a lot of times people think about family centric activities or things focused for kids. But as you know, today, we're here talk about a lot of the programming that's available for older adults. And I came in at the end, the tail end of your class today. So I'm hoping for us to kind of talk a little bit more about that. Would you mind sharing what the name of the class is that you enrolled in and a little bit more about the class itself?
Okay. Yes. It's called stepping on. It has to do how to. It's how to. It's called balance exercises, which means balancing and also strengthening exercises. The reason I'm here is that I have osteoarthritis in both of my ankles, and consequently, I'm unstable on my ankles. I used to be a marathon runner.
I used to go from Grafton to the lakefront milwaukee. Wonderful trip in the. In October. So consequently, I have issues with my ankles, and I have a fused ankle, and I have an artificial hip, and I. And I want to be able to be able to age in place, which means I want to be able to keep driving. And I needed to do these exercises for balance so that. And I stay off the ladders. Now, I only use a step ladder only if I'm against the wall, so I have something to lean against, but consequently, I'm staying on the ground.
And that's one reason why I'm here. I want to be able to do. I want to be able to live a safe life with my wife. We've been together 57 years, and that's where staying in the area.
How long have you been in this class in particular?
This class, this is. I think I was here. I started three weeks ago, I believe.
What are some positive learnings that you've had as a result of being in this class?
Actually, it's been an attitude change on my part, because I'm being very independent and a bit stubborn that I have to change my focus somewhat and take time to do the exercises if I'm going to have a successful next ten or 15 years. Like I said, I'm 78. Ten years now. I was 88. My gosh, that's old. But I hadn't planned on being here this long. But consequently, I am, and I'm thankful. For me, to stay vibrant is to learn how to balance exercises, which means I could stand up straight, not always have to use my cane or a walker.
I want to be able to drive. I like driving, get where I want to go. And it's doing the strength exercises to be able to do the balance. So what it is that they're helping me, what I like is what they did here. This came out of the book, and they made it into a. They laminated it. So you have the strength exercises to do every other day and the exercise to do daily. So that helps me realize that I need to do this if I'm going to be.
In ten years, if I'm going to be still moving around, and I want to be. And I'm just coming to that realization that that's what I need to do.
Absolutely. So creating that space to be disciplined in the practice sounds like an opportunity that you're continuing to carve into, which is wonderful.
It's to make it a priority. Before I could always. There's nothing I can't repair or fix or whatever. I do a lot of plumbing. I just swapped out of a sump pump. Right now I'm working on a faucets in the kitchen, and also the drain. The drain had plugged up, so I'm having a plumber come. I would have done it, but my wife said, no, call a plumber, replace the pipe, put in cleanouts, that sort of thing.
But I know how to do it, but I want to. Wife says, nope, enough's enough.
Yeah. Prioritizing your health.
So I'm praying this is getting. Becoming more priority that I realize that. And I have a brother in law who has Parkinson's, and Jose, that's such a thing on channel ten in regards to the exercises that people who have Parkinson's have to do every single day in order to keep moving. Thank God I do not have that issue. I'm way ahead of the game. I want to stay ahead of the game. So it's my focus and it's my mindset that I am changing. And it was somewhat of an epiphany.
I'm going to a funeral tomorrow, or a co worker who's ten years younger than I am died of cancer. Yeah, but the thing is that whatever comes, I've already battled cancer. 25 years ago, 30 years ago, maligned at melanomas, two of them. I have one kidney. So I have to look at all of the things that are in my life that I'm lucky to be where I'm at, and I want to be there for my wife also.
Absolutely.
She was one that told me about stepagon. She ran across it on the. It was. It was on the. She's. She's very computer literate. I am not. I'm a dinosaur.
She found. Hey, look at this. Yeah. It's only for seven weeks. Learn. Okay. Yeah, I'll do that. Because I have arthritic ankles.
I can't stand very long, so I have to learn how to strengthen them. And let's go as far as I can.
Now, one, I appreciate your wife for bringing it to you. It sounds like this epiphany is certainly something big, and I appreciate you even sharing that because prioritizing yourself and prioritizing your health is certainly just, you know, obviously I'm younger, but it's something that I'm learning the value of and trying to be rather intentional because, you know, I have loved ones who have been impacted either directly or indirectly by cancer. And so thinking about how what you do today impacts your tomorrow is certainly friend of mine.
Within 1015, 2040 years later.
Exactly. Now with that, I know there were quite a few people that were here when I left, so I want to kind of talk about the class and the ability for you to kind of connect with individuals. Have you been able to build, like, special relationships? I know you mentioned it's only about three weeks in, but have you been able to build friendships, at least acquaintances with individuals who have also enrolled in the program?
What I have, if I. If there's something in my life that hasn't been mentioned I want to enrich, well, this is what happened to me. I will bring that out. Exactly what I've been doing with you. It's the same thing. Why not share? That's the reason I am still here is because through the years, people took it upon themselves to enlighten me. Thank God for that. So pass it on.
So why hold it in? Why not? If I can share it? It's like a twelve step program. You know, what happens here stays here. But share it. And if it doesn't, isn't for you. Well, fine, just leave it. But there's something, a little spark. People who have done something for me. Some little thing that I remember from, or a hug from someone that said, I got an uncle.
I was like 16 years old, a teenager, really down. I was feeling. That guy came up to me, my uncle Marvin. He rapped us. Hey, Joey. Glad to see you. Great big bear hug. I still remember.
He's long gone. I was at his funeral about five years ago. But he's special. So it's those little things that add up to your upbringing and it does take a village, consequently. No, it's not the parents. My parents did the best that they could. They were war. They were in the second world war.
They had issues. I know my dad had PTSD, especially because he was very german. He spoke German on the farm and he enlisted in the navy. And you can imagine what's going on in a ship with all these different characters. I'm sure he was harassed, but he turned out to be a. He worked to a petty officer, machinist mate, the head of that sort of thing. In fact, they didn't want him to leave. They wanted to keep him.
They wanted him to enlist. My mom wouldn't allow it, but he had a machine shop later. So it's those things. And that's why I'm here now, giving of my time to share, to give back. And teaching at MATC, that has been just wonderful. How I got in there is because I befriended a machinist at Ao Smith who only came for the summer to work and he taught at MATC. And I go over and talk to. Nobody else would talk to him.
And I talk. I can't think of. I can see him so clearly. And three months later he said, hey, hey, Al. He said, come here. He said, are you really thinking about. Because I was only talking to him. And I said, yeah, sounds interesting.
And he said, yeah, are you interested? I'm going to be quitting one night this weekend. Teaching at MATC, downtown at the t building. Tool and die making. I said, yeah. He said. He said, go down, see Milton Bolt. I'll tell him you're coming. Gotta set up an interview.
Bingo. From there it went. And, and then, and then when I got there and they interviewed me, said, oh, can you teach machine shop? Yeah. So I taught Tuesdays and Thursday nights. But because of that connection with. Why can't I see how I apologize for not knowing his name? Because he was, God bless him, he's not on this earth anymore. But yes, how it works is that what goes around comes around. Now it sounds very trite.
Not trite, but trivial. It's not. I have yet to see it fail anyone who spreads confusion, hate, anger that will come back to them. I've seen it personally where I have worked. I've worked on a hundred man tool shop in Chicago. Hundred from different Greeks, Jews, Italians, Romanians, Germans, Polish, all these kind of guys thrown all together. And I went to school with the boss's son and I'm in Chicago, I had to be very careful because I knew too much, but I kept my mouth shut. But they played some tricks on me, but it was fun.
But the thing is, that's how you learn. So I want to share that there's the different personalities that are out there and that you have to deal with all these personalities.
Well, can I jump in right now?
Yeah, please do.
So. Certainly it sounds like you're able to share and you're open to receiving tidbits that can support you in thinking about this particular class. How else would you say the class has supported you either physically, emotionally, mentally?
Okay. I was off last. I got an injection in my ankle last Thursday, so I couldn't be. I had to miss that class and I really hated to do that. I was hoping I could get here afterwards. You know, you get it for a half hour, but it was. They were way behind and I didn't get out of there till this class went about over. But I felt bad because I did not do the exercises and yet I know that I needed to do those.
And it finally dawned on me, I'm going to have to, for the next ten years or more, do these every day if I'm going to be a viable human being. And talking to Kathy, who was head of the health department here, there was. I shared with her just exactly what I did with you. I said no incrimination. It was support. Yeah, I hear you. Yeah. It's a gradual thing that has to happen from myself.
But there was no ridicule or snide remarks, nothing like that at all. And I never allowed that in my classes at MATC. In fact, I had a class of women who were Briggs and Stratton in my tool inspection class, and a couple of guys. And I said, look, first class, here it is. There's no snickering, there's no putting down, and there's no such thing as a stupid question. If you don't know, you need to share that so that you. There she is. Yes, she's very supportive of me.
I'm very supportive. But I gotta get the room back together so I can go home. What do you need? Is the table back, you mean? Yeah, I will do that. I'll make sure it's done.
We'll wrap up in about two minutes.
Two minutes? Yeah.
And then I got to talk to her before I go.
Okay.
Thank you, Miss Kathy.
Okay. I'll be back.
All right. So, in jumping kind of quickly, you talked about a lot of positives. Are there any challenges that you're dealing with in the class that you're working through right now?
No, I think I'm finding it. It's. It's making me realize that I have to take care of myself, because I've never really gotten involved with that. It's always work. Working, punching a time clock, working with people. Engineering, or finding jobs for engineering for engineers, that sort of thing. So, no, there's no negative that I have for myself. I need to share.
So what's happening is it is pulling things out of my background. I've forgotten about that. So I could share that with people. So, in that sense, it's helping me sharpen my brain.
Love that. And then just to kind of close us out, because I want to be respectful of Miss Katrina's time. For someone who may not know that this class exists, what is one reason why you would recommend them to enroll in this particular program as you get older?
Say the question again. Boil it down.
Absolutely. What's one thing that you would recommend about this class or one reason why you would recommend this class?
To be aware of, especially the dangers in the home. Rugs in the floor, putting up extra handrails on the stair steps, and also next to the toilet, also in the shower, throw rugs. I have two dogs that live in the house with us and being aware of them and not being. Tripping over them. And everybody has a different situation in life, and we all come from different physical ailments as we get older, and that's the only thing I can think of. But to me, it's enlightening me.
Lovely.
And I like to. It's good for people because I want to live in the community. It's called aging in place. And that's Greendell and Milwaukee county.
Perfect. All right, well, what I'm going to do is.
Also generated
More from this recording
🔖 Titles
Embracing Aging: Al’s Journey Through Milwaukee County and Stepping On Class
The Power of Balance and Strength: Al’s Experience with Stepping On Program
From Marathon Runner to Balanced Living: Al’s Story of Aging Gracefully
Aging in Place: How Al Found New Strength and Community
Stepping On: Al’s Personal Quest for Balance and Longevity
Milwaukee's Hidden Gem: Al’s Experience with Senior Programs and Community Support
Finding Stability: Al’s Steps Toward a Healthier, Balanced Life
Tools, Teaching, and Transformation: Al’s Journey in Milwaukee
Aging Gracefully: Al’s Insights from Stepping On Class
Community and Strength: Al’s Path to a Vibrant Life in Milwaukee
💬 Keywords
recording, journeyman, tool and die maker, apprenticeship, Wisconsin, headhunter, MATC, machine shop, Milwaukee, Greendale, retirement, Milwaukee County, sewer and water, school system, UWM, UW Madison, tool and die making, planetarium, osteoarthritis, balance exercises, strengthening exercises, aging in place, marathon runner, fused ankle, artificial hip, cancer, arthritis, teaching, driving, older adults, safe living
💡 Speaker bios
Al’s journey into headhunting began serendipitously at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) South Campus, where he found himself committed not just to teaching but to securing jobs for his students. This initial responsibility sparked his passion for headhunting, leading him to transition into the field full time. Over the years, he worked with three prominent headhunting organizations in Milwaukee, a city he holds in high regard and believes is crucial to the well-being of Wisconsin. Al views Milwaukee as a hidden gem, emphasizing its importance and potential despite varying opinions.
ℹ️ Introduction
Welcome back to another enlightening episode of ADS Evidence Based Programs! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Al, an experienced journeyman tool and die maker and passionate Milwaukee resident. Al has had an intriguing career journey from teaching at MATC to working as a headhunter, but what truly stands out is his dedication to aging gracefully within his community.
In this episode, Al delves into his personal reasons for enrolling in the "Stepping On" program, a class focused on balance and strengthening exercises to help older adults maintain their mobility and independence. Despite his osteoarthritis and past health issues, Al has committed himself to these exercises to ensure a safer and healthier future.
We'll hear about his love for Milwaukee, his practical insights on aging in place, and how small changes can make a big difference in one's home environment. Al also shares the emotional impact and relationships he's built through the class, encouraging other older adults to prioritize their health and well-being. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom, practical advice, and the inspiring story of one man's journey to living a balanced and fulfilling life in his golden years.
📚 Timestamped overview
00:00 Became a headhunter after teaching at MATC; worked for three Milwaukee firms, valuing the city's significance.
03:45 Discussion about programming for older adults in Milwaukee and a request for details about a specific class.
06:09 Embracing exercise for independence and vitality at 78.
10:09 Prioritizing health is crucial; early realization, influenced by personal experiences, fosters intentional living.
14:52 Spreading negativity leads to consequences; personal experience in a diverse Chicago tool shop highlights this.
17:18 Supportive, respectful environment in class; no ridicule allowed.
19:44 Be aware of home safety hazards and personal physical needs.
📚 Timestamped overview
00:00 Became headhunter; love vibrant Milwaukee city.
03:45 Discussing programming for older adults in Milwaukee.
06:09 Adopting exercise for independence at 78.
10:09 Grateful for health prioritization and shared insights.
14:52 Confusion and hatred return to the sender.
17:18 Respectful, supportive learning environment without ridicule.
19:44 Ensure home safety, avoid tripping hazards.
❓ Questions
Absolutely, here are ten discussion questions based on the episode of "ADS Evidence Based Programs":
Background and Experience: Al mentions his diverse career background, including roles as a journeyman tool and die maker, a headhunter, and a teacher. How do you think this variety in his career has shaped his perspective on aging and personal development?
Living in Milwaukee: Al speaks passionately about living in Milwaukee and specifically in Greendale. What are some community aspects that you think are important for aging individuals to consider when choosing a place to live?
Headhunting to Teaching: Al transitioned from being a headhunter to teaching at MATC. What skills do you think are transferable between these professions, and how might they benefit Al in his journey of stepping on?
Health Challenges: Al mentions dealing with osteoarthritis and other health issues. How important do you think it is for older adults to engage in programs like "stepping on" to manage chronic health conditions?
Support Systems: Al credits his wife for finding the "stepping on" program and encouraging him to join. How crucial do you think spousal or familial support is in promoting health and well-being for older adults?
Community Programs: What other community programs do you think could benefit older adults looking to stay active and engaged in their later years?
Attitude and Mindset: Al reflects on the importance of changing his attitude towards exercise and self-care. How can communities foster an environment that encourages positive attitude changes toward aging and health?
Sharing Knowledge: Al places significant emphasis on sharing knowledge and experiences, comparing it to a 12-step program. How can sharing life experiences with peers positively impact an individual’s aging process?
Home Safety: Al highlights the importance of home safety to prevent falls and injuries. What are some practical measures that can be taken to improve safety in the homes of older adults?
Continual Learning: Al discusses the benefits of continually learning and staying engaged through programs like "stepping on." What are some ways older adults can be motivated to keep learning and stay mentally active?
These questions can spark engaging discussions that delve deeper into the themes covered by Al in the episode.
❇️ Key topics and bullets
Sure! Here's a comprehensive sequence of topics covered in the transcript with sub-topic bullets below each primary topic:
1. Introduction
Al’s background
Journeyman tool and die maker
Five-year apprenticeship in Wisconsin
Transition to headhunting
Teaching at MATC
Feelings about living in Milwaukee
Importance of Milwaukee
Retirement plans
2. Living in Milwaukee County
Reasons for moving to Milwaukee County
Dissatisfaction with septic systems and well water
Desire for sewer and water systems
Education and job opportunities
Planetarium activities at UWM
Family education background (wife and sons)
3. Class for Older Adults
Introduction to the class
Name: "Stepping On"
Focus: Balance and strengthening exercises
Personal reasons for joining
Osteoarthritis and ankle instability
Past as a marathon runner
Desire to age in place
4. Experience in the Class
Duration of participation
Started three weeks ago
Positive learnings
Attitude change and realization of necessity
Discipline and prioritization
Specific exercises and program structure
Daily and every-other-day exercises
5. Personal Health and Lifestyle
Drawing from personal history
Encounters with cancer
Epiphany on prioritizing health
Support from family
Wife’s involvement in finding the class
6. Building Relationships and Community
Interaction with classmates
Building acquaintances and sharing experiences
Value of shared learning
Sharing wisdom and receiving support
Impact of positive interactions from the past
7. Emotional and Mental Support
Overcoming physical setbacks
Instances of missing classes
Realizing the need for consistency
Encouragement and recognition
Support from Health Department
8. Reflections on Teaching and Mentorship
Teaching experiences at MATC
Importance of a supportive class environment
Policies against snide remarks and fostering a safe space
9. Addressing Class Challenges
Realizations from class participation
The importance of self-care
Remembering and sharing past experiences
10. Safety and Practical Home Adjustments
Home safety improvements
Handrails and eliminating throw rugs
Awareness of pets as potential hazards
11. Recommendations
Benefits of the class
Awareness of home dangers
Aging in place in the community
This sequence of topics ensures a comprehensive overview of the content covered in the transcript.
🎬 Reel script
Hey everyone, it's [Your Name] here. I just wrapped up an incredible session with Al on the ADS Evidence Based Programs podcast. Al, a dedicated journeyman and community advocate, shared his inspiring journey from his career in tool and die making to his passionate involvement in senior wellness classes. He opened up about the importance of programs like "Stepping On," which focuses on balance and strength exercises for older adults. His commitment to health, community, and lifelong learning is truly motivating. Don't miss this episode—it's packed with wisdom on aging gracefully and living vibrantly! Listen now!
👩💻 LinkedIn post
📢🎙️ Just wrapped up another insightful episode of the ADS Evidence Based Programs podcast! In Episode POD00097, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Al, a journeyman tool and die maker with an incredible journey of resilience, adaptation, and lifelong learning. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Embrace Change and Lifelong Learning: Al’s journey from being a tool and die maker to a headhunter and educator at MATC underscores the importance of constantly evolving and adapting to new challenges and opportunities.
Prioritize Health and Wellness: After years of rigorous physical activity, Al faced osteoarthritis. His enrollment in the "Stepping On" program exemplifies the critical need to proactively manage health through balance exercises and making necessary adjustments at home, especially as we age.
Community and Support: Al highlighted the importance of community support and sharing knowledge. His willingness to share personal experiences and learnings reminds us of the value of collective wisdom and mutual support as we navigate life's challenges.
Tune in to the full episode to hear more about Al's inspiring experiences and insights! 🎧✨ #Healthcare #AgingInPlace #LifelongLearning #CommunitySupport #PodcastHighlights
🔗 Listen now: [insert podcast link]
Would love to hear your thoughts and any takeaways you had from this episode! Share in the comments below. ⬇️
🗞️ Newsletter
Subject: 🌟 Episode POD00097: Navigating Aging with Al's Inspirational Journey 🌟
Dear [Subscriber’s Name],
We hope this email finds you well. We're excited to bring you the latest episode of ADS Evidence Based Programs — Episode POD00097. This week, our interviewee, Al, shares an incredible journey, blending personal insights with valuable advice for aging gracefully and staying active.
🎧 Listen Now: [Link to Episode POD00097]
In This Episode:
Meet Al: Al is a journeyman tool and die maker, former headhunter, and an experienced instructor. His journey from a budding machinist to an advocate for aging in place is nothing short of inspirational.
Life in Milwaukee County: Al discusses why he chose to settle and retire in Milwaukee County, highlighting the community's strengths and the benefits of living in an area with robust services and activities.
Stepping On Program: Al talks in-depth about the "Stepping On" program — a class focused on balancing and strengthening exercises tailored for older adults. Discover how this program has positively impacted Al’s life, helping him combat osteoarthritis, avoid falls, and continue living independently.
Community and Connection: Al shares heartwarming stories about building relationships and support networks through local initiatives and the role of communal support in leading a fulfilling life.
Episode Highlights:
The importance of prioritizing health and making safe choices as we age.
Practical tips on home safety, including securing rugs and adding handrails.
Insightful anecdotes on the value of giving back and the power of community.
Why You Should Tune In:
Inspiration & Wisdom: Al's perspective on life, health, and aging is both inspiring and educational. Whether you're an older adult or have aging loved ones, you'll find valuable takeaways in his stories.
Actionable Advice: Learn practical steps to enhance your daily life, from health exercises to home safety adjustments.
Community Feel: Gain a deeper appreciation for the communal spirit of Milwaukee County and the benefits of aging in place.
🔗 Don't miss out! Click here to listen to Episode POD00097: [Link to Episode POD00097]
We hope you enjoy Al’s journey and find the insights shared in this episode beneficial. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, feel free to reply to this email or engage with us on our social media channels.
Thank you for being a valued subscriber!
Warm regards,
The ADS Evidence Based Programs Team
Stay Connected:
Website: [Your Website URL]
Facebook: [Your Facebook URL]
Twitter: [Your Twitter URL]
Instagram: [Your Instagram URL]
P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform so you never miss an episode! 🎙️🧡
🧵 Tweet thread
Sure thing! Here's a Twitter thread based on the conversation:
🧵1/ Ever wondered what it takes to thrive in your later years? Meet Al, a journeyman tool and die maker from Milwaukee who's mastering the art of aging gracefully. 🛠️💪 #AgingWell #Inspiration
2/ Al's journey started with a five-year apprenticeship in Wisconsin, shaping his skills not just as a toolmaker, but as an educator and even a headhunter. Talk about versatility! 📚👷 #LifelongLearning
3/ "I love Milwaukee," Al says. And he's not just about the cheese and beer - it's the people, the jobs, the vibrant community. "Milwaukee has to be a viable city," he insists. 🏙️❤️ #MilwaukeePride
4/ Why Milwaukee? "Sewer and water," Al jokes. But really, it's about the schools, the planetarium trips, and the countless job opportunities that kept him grounded. 🌌🏫 #CityLove
5/ Now at 78, Al's focus has shifted. With osteoarthritis in his ankles, balance and strength are crucial. Enter "Stepping On," a class that's been a game changer. 💪#AgeingStrong
6/ "I used to run marathons," Al reminisces. But life had other plans - a fused ankle, an artificial hip. Yet, he's determined to age in place, staying active and independent. 🏃♂️🦿 #NeverGiveUp
7/ What’s "Stepping On"? It’s all about balance and strength exercises to help folks like Al stay steady on their feet. “I want to be here for my wife,” he says after 57 wonderful years together. 🤝💑 #LoveStory
8/ For Al, it's more than physical fitness. It's an attitude shift. "If I want to be moving in ten years, I need to prioritize my health today," he states. 📆🏋️ #HealthIsWealth
9/ With laminated exercise guides and the support of a great community, Al's on his way to a brighter, balanced future. Even simple tips like removing throw rugs can make all the difference. 📝🧩 #ProTips
10/ Teaching at MATC was a highlight for Al because he believes in sharing knowledge. "What goes around, comes around," he says, emphasizing the importance of giving back. 🎓📈 #PassItOn
11/ A heartwarming moment: Al remembers a bear hug from his uncle when he was just 16. It's these little gestures that often carry us through life’s toughest moments. ❤️ #SmallActsBigImpact
12/ Through all his life lessons, Al hasn’t just learned work skills but life skills. “It’s the different personalities you meet, the minds you inspire, the knowledge you share.” 🌍💬 #LifeLessons
13/ And he’s not stopping. For anyone hesitant about joining a program like "Stepping On," Al’s advice: “Stay aware of your surroundings and stay active. Aging in place is possible!” 🏡🌟 #AgeInPlace
14/ Al’s story is a reminder that aging isn’t about slowing down but adapting, staying curious, and most importantly, cherishing the journey. 🚀🌟 #AgingWithPurpose
15/ Cheers to Al and to all who've chosen to live life to the fullest, no matter the age. Let’s take a leaf out of his book and keep striving for balance, health, and community. 🌟🏃♂️🛠️ #Inspiration
Feel free to adjust any part of it to your liking or fit the specific tone of your social media presence!
🪡 Threads by Instagram
Inspired by Al's journey as a journeyman tool and die maker! His dedication to growth and adaptation, even in retirement, is a lesson for us all. Embrace lifelong learning and balance. 🛠🌟
Al's story highlights the importance of aging in place. From Greendale to Milwaukee County, he prioritizes safety and community. Life is about creating a supportive environment at any age. 🏡❤️
Balance and strength are key to Al's daily life, thanks to the "Stepping On" class. It's never too late to prioritize your health and well-being. Take small steps today for a healthier tomorrow. 💪👟
Al’s experience in the "Stepping On" class led to an epiphany: self-care is non-negotiable. It’s more than exercises, it’s a mindset shift towards a more vibrant and independent life. Transform your habits! 🌟🧠
Sharing wisdom is Al's way of giving back. From his MATC teaching days to life's little lessons, he's all about passing it forward. Remember, a small act of kindness can leave a lifelong impression. 🌈💬
Summary of 5 points
Based on Al's interview and insights into his experiences, career, and the importance of community engagement, here are five recommendations to enhance recruitment efforts for African American participants and facilitators:
1. Community Partnership and Outreach
Develop partnerships with local institutions, such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), community centers, and churches in Milwaukee County. Engage these organizations to help disseminate information about the program and frame it as a community resource. Highlighting successful alumni and current participants in these communities can make the program more relatable and trusted.
2. Highlight Success Stories and Testimonials
Utilize testimonials from existing African American participants and facilitators who can share their positive experiences and the benefits they’ve gained from the program. Candid stories, like Al's, that emphasize personal growth, health improvements, and community support can be very persuasive.
3. Incorporate Culturally-Responsive Programming
Ensure that the classes and programs offered are culturally relevant and sensitive to the experiences of African Americans. For instance, leveraging facilitators who are aware of specific health concerns common in the African American community and providing tailored advice and exercises can make the program more appealing.
4. Offer Incentives and Accessibility
Provide incentives such as free health screenings, transportation, or even stipends for participants and facilitators. Additionally, offering classes at various times and in different locations throughout Milwaukee County can enhance accessibility.
5. Targeted Marketing and Representation
Create marketing materials that reflect diversity and specifically target African American communities. Including imagery and language that members of the community can identify with will make the program seem more inclusive and inviting. Featuring diverse facilitators in promotional content helps reinforce the message that the program values and includes African American voices and leadership.
These efforts combined can help build a more inclusive environment that attracts African American participants and facilitators, making programs like "Stepping On" beneficial to a broader segment of the community.
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