Proceeds from the calendars will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, CNY Chapter
By Megan Plete Postol
A medical group in Syracuse is showcasing resilient seniors in a unique program.
The initiative was launched as a contest to find 12 people aged 60 to 69 that exemplify strength and determination to be featured in a calendar and as community ambassadors.
“Syracuse 60 Strong is a public service for seniors,” physician Mitchell Brodey, president and CEO of FamilyCare Medical Group, said. “We are looking for 12 inspirational people in their 60s who are strong in mind, body and spirit to appear as ‘pin ups’ on our 2022 Syracuse 60 Strong calendar. Maybe they are running marathons or biking cross country. Maybe they have started a new hobby or given back to a charitable cause. Perhaps they have overcome a chronic health condition. We are encouraging everyone to think of an inspirational ‘60 something’ in their life, a parent, colleague, teacher or friend and nominate them for Syracuse 60 Strong.”
Anyone aged 18 or older can nominate a friend or family member who has achieved remarkable levels of fitness, pursued a new hobby or given back to others in some way. Examples of potential candidates are a survivor, a caregiver, a coach, etc.
The 12 winning ambassadors of Syracuse 60 Strong will receive a virtual cocktail party, professional photo shoot and compensation for their modeling time. Those who nominate a winner will also be a winner and receive a $50 gift certificate. All proceeds from the calendars will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, CNY Chapter.
“After an especially difficult year, we are excited to celebrate the strength and resilience of CNY seniors,” Brodey said. “Syracuse 60 Strong provides an opportunity to uplift the voices and share the stories of some of the community’s unsung heroes.”
In addition to appearing on the calendar, the 12 winners will serve as ambassadors, being an example of how to live fully, give back and connect with others.
“They will inspire everyone, of all ages, to live a healthy and active life,” Brodey said.
Syracuse 60 Strong is sponsored by FamilyCare Medical Group in conjunction with the launch of Salt City Senior Care Advantage IPA, which is a program designed to provide seamless and greater coordination of care for their senior patients.
“60 Strong is about saying, ‘I can,’ rather than, ‘I can’t,” Brodey said. “It’s our way to send a message to folks approaching the Medicare age that life in your 60s can be a vibrant and active time. We encourage seniors to get social and get active, to prioritize their physical and mental health, and to keep trying new things.”
To nominate an inspirational senior, visit www.Syracuse60Strong.com.
All entries are due by July 26.
Entries must include an application form, 200-400-word essay, head shot and full-length photo. Celebrity judges will select 12 winners who exemplify how life after 60 can be a vibrant and active time. Contestants are judged on their commitment to leading an active lifestyle, community involvement, volunteerism and how they are inspirational to others.
Winners must be available Aug. 18 through Aug. 21.
Questions can be directed to Syracuse60Strong@SaltCitySCA.com.