Socialization, Education offered at FISH monthly luncheons

FISH OF SANCAP, the islands only wrap-around human service organization, is a ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ organization offering Food Programs (F) – Island Based Education (I) – Social & Senior Services (S) – and Helping Hands (H).  Since its inception over 40 years ago, the organization is filling the gaps for the residents and workforce of Sanibel and Captiva.

FISH offers a monthly community-wide luncheon through their Senior Services programs, held the 2^nd Tues. of each month at the Sanibel Recreation Center.  Sanibel Deli provides box lunches, the cost of which is complimentary to all guests.

The Friendly Faces luncheon has been a FISH tradition for many years providing an opportunity to catch up with friends and make new connections. Although disrupted by Hurricane Ian, the organization re-launched the luncheons in May 2023 and continue the offering with an outstanding guest attendance. Guest speakers provide learning experiences for guests on varying topics.

A recent discussion, presented by Dr. Peter Blaze Corcoran, was a fan-favorite. Dr. Corcoran spoke on the living legacy of Frances Perkins, noting,” It was a privilege to speak on this topic because I felt her remarkable courage and resourcefulness would give islanders strength. As U.S. Secretary of Labor, Frances faced difficulty with great imagination. This courage, resourcefulness, and imagination was the subtext of my lecture.” For more information on Frances Perkins, visit francesperkinscenter.org.

Erika Broyles, Senior Services Director, facilitates and organizes the luncheons monthly.  “We have many great speakers and guests joining us regularly, and it’s so wonderful to offer different learning experiences and connection points to our community. For the Frances Perkins discussion, we had 41 in attendance, many of which described Dr. Corcoran’s presentation as ‘thought provoking with an interesting perspective’ and being able to hear from someone who knew Frances Perkins personally was intriguing.  One attendee noted her mother went to school with Frances Perkins and later shared a picture with the group.”

The Friendly Faces Luncheon is designed for people of all ages, providing an opportunity to socialize and connect, and is particularly popular with the islands’ senior population. According to the National Council on Aging, “the benefits of community-based programs range from better nutrition to improved social connectedness.  Social isolation can lead to loneliness and depression as well as higher blood pressure and early-onset dementia. Attending these programs on a regular basis gives older adults the chance to meet new people, nurture lasting friendships, and build a solid support network. It can provide a foundation for a thriving social life that makes it easier to live independently. In fact, 54% of participants say it increased their social opportunities.”[i]

For more information on the FISH Friendly Faces Luncheon or to RSVP for upcoming luncheons, contact Erika Broyles at FISH at 239-472-4775. Individuals and organization wishing to present at an upcoming luncheon may also reach out to Erika.

[i] https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-is-a-congregate-meal-how-do-they-benefit-older-adults