A village is a community-based network of members and aligned organizations engaged to support aging interdependently and maintain the well-being of its members. Most villages are grassroots, self-governing membership organizations that promote neighbor-to-neighbor support and community connectivity, enhance interdependence and healthy living, and are run by volunteers or paid staff.

Villages form key partnerships, provide resources and referrals, and are an important resource for strengthening their communities. Members engage in projects to improve their communities through volunteering, advocating, and creating solutions to community issues.

In the U.S., approximately 300 local villages already exist doing the work to connect members to a wide range of practical support services and promote active living with recreational, social, educational, and cultural programs, as illustrated below.

The UPLIFT Florida Network is a hub organization supporting community-based villages and other like-minded organizations. Learning from the successes and challenges of existing villages, the UPLIFT Florida Network recognizes that the village of the future may be described as:

• Community-oriented organizations strengthening the health and well-being of its members
• Focused on building strong strategic partnerships
• Virtually connected internally and to a curated array of resources
• Innovative, financially sustainable with diverse funding sources
• Oriented toward social engagement, health, and wellness services
• Supportive of multigenerational connections and interdependence
• Fulfilling people’s desire for belonging, self-determination, and community connectedness.
• Exemplify neighbors helping neighbors