Wallis Annenberg GenSpace, a senior center located in the heart of Los Angeles Koreatown, is gaining mainstream attention for bringing together older adults from diverse backgrounds.
NPR reported on June 24 that GenSpace represents a new type of senior center, where seniors from all walks of life can take classes, share their lives and passions, and build relationships. “It’s a place where you can step out of your old identity and experience and think about new possibilities,” said aging expert Marc Freedman.
“There are more non-Koreans than Korean Americans who come to GenSpace,” said Program Manager Amber Janke in an interview with the Korea Daily. GenSpace is especially popular among non-Korean seniors, creating a dynamic environment different from other community centers in Koreatown, which typically cater specifically to Korean Americans.
“The diversity of people at GenSpace creates a positive and dynamic environment,” said member Ann Batchelor. “When I first walked in here, I felt a sense of possibility that I could build a new life.”
One member, Lorraine Molland, a formerly homeless woman, has found motivation through GenSpace. She is rebuilding her life by taking classes such as art, drumming, and choir. “It’s a beautiful place that gives you love and dignity,” Molland said.
Beyond its role as a community center, GenSpace also hopes to function as a think tank. “GenSpace aims to change the negative stereotypes and perceptions of older adults by continuing to advance the conversations about aging,” said Wallis Annenberg, CEO and president of the Annenberg Foundation, which runs GenSpace. In support of this mission, GenSpace hosted a summit on challenging stereotypes of older adults in 2022 and is currently hosting a conversation series called Aging Out Loud.
BY KYEONGJUN KIM, HOONSIK WOO [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
