COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LAFAYETTE
LEARNING & EDUCATION
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COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LAFAYETTE: Strengthening Senior Lives in Lafayette and Beyond Did you know? Today, 1 out of 5 Lafayette residents is 65 or older. By 2030, 1 in 4 residents is projected to be 65 or older.
F or Lafayette residents Mark Mahaney and his wife Tammy, their “happy hour” is the hour they spend each Friday afternoon leading a music class at Las Trampas, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to discover their capabilities and lead full lives. For over three years, Mark and Tammy have brought music to Las Trampas participants — witnessing transformations that, in Mark’s words, “bring people to life.” Participants like Stephenie, who spent a year and a half disengaged and withdrawn, surprised everyone one day by breaking into a joyful dance. Darren, once a quiet observer, now dances proudly in the middle of the room. These are small moments with big meaning, demonstrating the power of inclusion and joy in a nurturing environment. For Mark and Tammy, that class is the highlight of their week. Mark’s connection to Las Trampas runs even deeper. In addition to serving as Board Chair, he is also the proud father of Noah, a 25-year-old participant in Las Trampas’ day program. Noah, who has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism, is deeply attached to his routines – and Las Trampas is at the heart of it. That bond became especially clear one morning when Noah’s cherished NASA backpack was missing. Noah quietly slipped out of the house and walked half a mile to the Las Trampas campus. The staff quickly called home, and the situation was resolved without harm, but for Mark, the message was clear. “When things felt wrong, Noah turned to Las Trampas, seeking comfort in a place that felt familiar and safe,” said Mark. “He’s a creature of habit, and his habit is Las Trampas.” What Las Trampas offers isn’t just a program — it’s been a haven for adults with IDD to grow, connect, and thrive in the Lafayette community since 1958. “HAPPY HOUR” WITH A PURPOSE — AND A PLAYLIST! Las Trampas brings joy, growth, and belonging to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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BY CHERYL NOLL, PRESIDENT OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LAFAYETTE
FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS, the Community Foundation of Lafayette has been a cornerstone of support for the senior community in Lafayette and throughout Lamorinda, creating meaningful connections and addressing critical needs through innovative programming and strategic grantmaking. LEADING THROUGH EDUCATION AND CONNECTION The Foundation’s Senior Symposium, approaching its 16th year on Sept. 27, exemplifies its commitment to senior empowerment. This free annual event features experienced professionals covering health, wellness, safety, technology, and estate planning. STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN SENIOR SERVICES The Foundation strategically funds organizations that directly impact seniors’ lives. This year, its grants support the Lamorinda Spirit Van, an essential source of senior transportation, and Meals on Wheels Diablo Region, which provides home-delivered meals. Additional funding goes to Lamorinda Village for volunteer support, Empowered Aging for long-term care advocacy, and Contra Costa Senior Legal Services for free legal assistance. SUPPORTING SENIORS WITH DIGNITY AND BELONGING The Community Foundation of Lafayette supports a comprehensive system of care by funding grants that help seniors age safely and independently, with access to essential services and meaningful social connections.
Noah getting his groove on during weekly music class.
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Noah and Mark Mahaney love goofing around together.
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OUR SENIOR COMMUNITY IMPACT AT A GLANCE:
• 25+ years of grantmaking dedicated to senior wellness • 5 key initiatives: transportation, caregiving, meals, wellness, and social connection • 1,000+ seniors supported annually through Community Foundation grants • Annual Senior Symposiums hosted to provide free education, resources, and community engagement
Special thanks to Realtor Ashley Battersby for sponsoring our Learning & Education
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ENHANCING LIFE, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY...TOGETHER
16 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 17
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