Steps for the Age-Friendly Congregation Certificate
February 6, 2026
Steps outlining how individuals and congregations can become certified as an Age-Friendly Congregation.
Steps outlining how individuals and congregations can become certified as an Age-Friendly Congregation.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (February 3, 2026) — ENCORE Ministry Foundation (ENCORE), a nonprofit organization focused on ministry by, for, and with older adults in Christian communities, announced today the recipients of its Food Security Grant, a funding initiative made possible through the generosity of individuals and churches, McKendree Village Foundation, as well as ENCORE’s Kent and Ellen McNish Grant for Older Adult Food Security Endowment Fund. The program awarded $100,000 in food security grants to 20 churches to strengthen food distribution ministries serving older adults across their communities.
As the holiday season draws near, the world seems to sparkle with joy—twinkling lights, cheerful music, and warm gatherings. Yet for many older adults, the season can feel quiet, cold, and deeply lonely. Loved ones may live far away, traditions may have faded, and the empty chair at the holiday table can speak louder than carols on the radio.
The Trump Administration announced yesterday a major restructuring of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that includes massive staff cuts and the elimination of the Administration for Community Living (ACL). ACL is the only federal agency exclusively focused on supporting older people and people with disabilities.
A home sharing program in Nashville provides a way for seniors to age in place and supplement their income while also providing companionship and affordable housing for young professionals. Three years ago, several organizations providing programs and services for seniors approached Metro Nashville officials about the growing housing cost burdens for seniors — the fastest growing population in Davidson County — and asked for help launching a home sharing model.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and United States Postal Inspection Services (USPIS) issued a public service announcement that check fraud is increasing. Scammers are
In 2022, grant support from the ENCORE Ministry Foundation helped fund rebuilding four destroyed or flood-damaged homes owned by senior adults in Waverly, Tennessee. Appalachia Service Project, a Christian ministry that provides critical home repair and replacement in central Appalachia, oversaw the work.
Mary McDaniel Cail outlines eight essential steps to help your church create an effective group for those caring for loved ones with dementia.
Rebranding EMF is one powerful strategy implemented to refresh our purpose, engage new supporters, and clarify our message. This article explores some of the key considerations involved.
Observed on June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day provides an opportunity for church leaders and congregations to promote dialogue and action on the issues of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Since its inception in 2013, ENCORE Ministry has awarded more than $1 million in grants to 130 congregations and organizations in the TWK Conference. Grant money has helped fund a variety of projects benefitting older adults throughout the conference.
It’s no surprise that John Rivas’s love for his own family and his desire to help other families plan their financial legacies are two of the three most important aspects of his life. The third may be unexpected.
Honoring Kent McNish’s service as ENCORE Ministry’s founding executive director, the Kent McNish Fund for Older Adult Food Security was established.
Firefighter/Paramedic Scott Brotherton and Lieutenant/AEMT Daron Standifird from the Nolensville Fire Department trained Ebenezer UMC members on how to perform CPR and correctly use a defibrillator. Part of the defibrillator cost was offset by an Older Adult Community Service grant from ENCORE Ministry.
Money from an ENCORE Ministry grant was used to transform two small restrooms and an unused Sunday school classroom into an updated and accessible family restroom.
Watch older adult ministry training event held on October 26, 2023. Downloadable resource also available.
ENCORE Ministry names John Rivas Its incoming Executive Director. He succeeds Kent McNish, the ministry’s founding executive director, who will retire at the end of 2023.
Ageism can shorten a lifespan by 7.5 years, according to a 2002 study by Becca Levy. Individuals with a more positive self-perception of aging lived an average of 7.5 years longer than those with less positive self-perceptions.
ENCORE Ministry grant helps rebuild four homes for low-Income senior adults in Waverly, Tennessee.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day raises awareness of cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.
Together, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, feeding the hungry, caring for the vulnerable, and showing love to those who need it most. Every dollar you give to the Kent and Ellen McNish Fund for Older Adult Food Security helps feeding ministries stretch resources and serve more meals to those in need. Donate today and help support life-changing feeding ministries like the People’s Table.