Greater Harleysville and North Penn Senior Services celebrates Black History Month

>> Greater Harleysville and North Penn Senior Services (GHNPSS) celebrated the heritage of African-Americans for Black History Month with two events at Encore Experiences in Harleysville and the PEAK Center in Lansdale.

A community-based organization serving seniors of all cultural backgrounds, GHNPSS held the events as part of a strategic planning initiative to champion cultural diversity and address the challenges people of color face. During both events, speaker Terri Lyons, an author, speaker, narrator, emcee and actress in Philadelphia, personified the life of civil rights activist Jo Ann Robinson by telling her story from a firstperson perspective.

A heroine of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Robinson’s story not only showcases her as a role model for the African-American community but also represents the importance of continually working to eradicate racial inequality. Robinson remained actively involved in her community and in local

politics until her death in Los Angeles on August 29, 1992. Her legacy still continues today.

The program at Encore Experiences also featured local caterer and candidate for the North Penn School Board Henriette (Liz) Dondele-Vazquez, who delighted the audience with a step-by-step demonstration on making traditional Angolan Bolo De Ginguba. In addition, guests were treated to a special lunch that featured Nigerian Stew, prepared by the Chef at Encore, along with Peanut Cake for dessert.

Other speakers at the

events included GHNPSS’ Executive Director, Elizabeth Beil and Wanda LewisCampbell, Board Member, who highlighted GHNPSS’ service to seniors in Montgomery County.

GHNPSS operates both Encore Experiences in Harleysville and The PEAK Center in Lansdale. Its mission is to provide access to programs and resources that help older adults live independently and remain active. Both centers offer a place of comfort, fellowship and care to the seniors in the community. For more information about the organization, visit www.ghnpss. org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREATER HARLEYSVILLE AND NORTH PENN SENIOR SERVICES Speakers and participants celebrate Black History Month.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREATER HARLEYSVILLE AND NORTH PENN SENIOR SERVICES Terri Lyons personifies Jo Ann Robinson by telling the story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott as if she was Jo Ann.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREATER HARLEYSVILLE AND NORTH PENN SENIOR SERVICES Attendees enjoy Nigerian Stew that was prepared by the Chef at Encore Experiences.