CHARLOTTE, N.C. — An entrepreneur is receiving recognition for her community service.
Liliana Molina, a Colombian native and founder of the Colombian Association of Charlotte, is behind a free program connecting older adults in the Hispanic community in Charlotte to information, resources and new friends.
The program “Pongale Vida a los Años” or “Give Life to Your Years” is the flagship program of the Colombian Association of Charlotte.
It brings adults 60 and older together once a month to learn about different topics, including health and nutrition. They also share a meal together, exercise and participate in other activities.
“This program is important to me because they have given so much for us. There is a moment of their lives when they reach 80 that they don’t feel important and don’t feel they have a voice in their family due to their age,” Molina said.
Socorro Sanchez, who is from Colombia, has been part of the older adults program for three years.
“I feel good because I understand everyone, and we dance too. Dancing is the best exercise for me,” Sanchez said.
Hannier Rojas, originally from Costa Rica, lives alone and credits the program for increasing her socializing.
“I think the best part is interacting with people. I usually sit at different tables, and I have made some friends,” Rojas said.
Give Life to Your Years went from 20 participants in 2016 to 380 now. The group usually meets at Hickory Grove United Methodist Church in Charlotte once a month.
Volunteers, donations and community partners are keeping the program running.
“I realized the program is having a positive impact when they come here and tell me, ‘Thank you. I needed this. Thank you, I’m feeling better. Thank you because I’m now taking care of my health,’” Molina said.
La Noticia, a Spanish language news organization, recognized Molina recently as this year’s community service of the year with their Excelente Awards.
Participants agree this honor is well deserved.
“She’s wonderful, kind and always looks after us,” Molina said.
La Noticia credits the program for enriching the lives and creating a sense of belonging for older adults.
“I’m very grateful, and at the same time it makes me realize we are doing a good job in the community,” Molina said.
The next meeting will take place Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Molina welcomes more volunteers and donations to keep the program strong.
If you are interested in volunteering, attending or supporting the program, you can email asococharlottenc@gmail.com.
