Everlyne Connor first joined St. Louis Oasis in August after her best friend and her friend’s cousin encouraged her to attend Matter of Balance, a class that helps with fall prevention. One detail from their recommendation stuck out—a class facilitator overflowing with energy and enthusiasm. That was all the inspiration Everlyne needed to give St. Louis Oasis a try.

Everlyne began with Matter of Balance, but her journey didn’t end there. She went on to participate in Give 5 and then Healthy Habits—each program offering something new, supportive, and enriching. Give 5 is a free, community-based program that connects retirees and soon-to-be retirees with meaningful volunteer opportunities tailored to their skills and passions. Healthy Habits showcases ways for participants to incorporate healthy lifestyle practices into their everyday lives.

“I was inspired to join Oasis because I saw their goal of helping older adults age actively and safely,” Everlyne shares. Staying active and involved is important to her, especially as a wheelchair user. What she found at St. Louis Oasis was a community that welcomed her fully.

“The facilitators of these classes are so caring, helpful and professional,” Everlyne remarked. “I was treated with respect and my disability didn’t matter. My wheelchair use didn’t stop me from attending any of the sessions. The transportation and everywhere we visited was wheelchair accessible. My ability to participate was important to me and to stay active with this new community.”

For Everlyne, one of the best parts of her St. Louis Oasis experience has been connecting with other members and learning about nonprofits directly from the people who run them. Through Give 5, she had the opportunity to meet founders, staff, and volunteers, hearing firsthand the impact each organization makes in the community.

“Come join Oasis and explore all the educational opportunities and possibilities on how to increase your life span,” Everlyne shared. Her journey reflects what makes St. Louis Oasis special—a welcoming space where older adults can stay active, engaged, connected, and inspired.