Goldensun Links Seniors with Disabilities Community

Plates clinked and conversation flew in the fellowship hall of Trinity Mennonite Church in Phoenix. It was a Monday night, and participants in the SOOP (Service Opportunities for Older People) program gathered to share a meal with members of the Goldensun community, a faith-based organization that provides supportive living communities for adults with developmental disabilities.

Members of the program live in three houses within walking distance of the SOOP house and Trinity Mennonite Church.

About 15 SOOP participants gather each week to share a potluck meal with all the Goldensun households. After eating, the groups sometimes spend time singing and worshiping together.

“The SOOPers and Goldensun residents are such a natural fit,” said Aaron Gouldthorpe, director of Goldensun. “The SOOPers bring a wealth of life experience and a deep spirituality to our community, but it goes both ways. Our Goldensun guys bring so much life and help to bring other people’s gifts out.”

By Hannah Heinzekehr for Mennonite Mission Network
Reproduced with permission

 

The Goldensun ministry was established in 2004 through a partnership between West Coast MCC and a team of local leaders committed to caring for people with disabilities.

Learn more at goldensunonline.org.