SWEDESBORO — Retirement often brings more free time, but for many older adults it can also usher in loneliness and isolation. In Swedesboro and Woolwich Township, Aged to Perfection has spent more than two decades proving that aging does not have to mean growing apart.
Through fellowship, shared experiences and community engagement, the organization has become a lifeline for seniors seeking connection, purpose and friendship.
For members, companionship is the heart of the mission. Whether gathering for biweekly meetings, sharing meals, listening to guest speakers or traveling together, Aged to Perfection offers seniors a place to stay active, informed and involved.
“Our goal was to get to know people and stay connected,” said Erwin Potts, who joined the seniors’ group with his wife, Gloria, after moving from Chester, Pennsylvania. The couple became involved in 2017 while searching for local activities.
Today, Potts says the organization provides far more than social interaction. “There are too many things happening today,” he said. “Being part of a senior group gives us important information from public safety officials, police officers, firefighters and others.”
Like many members, Potts values the friendships the group fosters – even while acknowledging the difficult moments that come with aging. “Sometimes you hear about a friend who is sick or has passed away,” he said.
Those bonds were especially evident when members recently learned that longtime participant Mary Rogers would be moving away. For many, the news felt like saying goodbye to family.
Few people understand the importance of those relationships better than Janet Richardson, who has served as president of Aged to Perfection for 16 years. Richardson, 88, joined the organization with her husband, Gene, in 2008 and has watched friendships flourish among members from diverse backgrounds.
“Loneliness can affect anyone,” she said. “This group gives people a reason to get out, meet others and stay involved.”
Members of Aged to Perfection pay annual dues of just $12 and meet twice each month. Programs often feature presentations from elected officials, law enforcement officers, firefighters, healthcare professionals and attorneys who offer practical information on issues affecting seniors.
Interest remains strong. Membership is capped at 100 residents, and the group currently maintains a waiting list. Applicants must be at least 55 years old and live in either Swedesboro or Woolwich Township.
Gene Richardson credits his wife for much of the organization’s growth.
“The reason I joined the club is because of Janet when Judy ran the organization,” he said. “Janet is personable. She enjoys helping others. She grew the club so large.”
He recalled that founder Judy Daley encouraged Janet to help lead the organization shortly after the couple joined, noting that township funding must be used within the fiscal year – a challenge Janet embraced as she helped expand programs and membership.
While educational programs are important, members say fellowship is what keeps them coming back. Throughout the year, Aged to Perfection organizes lunches, dinners, day trips and extended excursions.
For Gloria Potts, 81, the group provides both social opportunities and motivation to stay active. “It is an opportunity to be active and stay healthy,” said the retired school administrator. She still remembers the warm welcome she received at her first group dinner. “Sharing meals and spending time together is what keeps me going.”
Member Pat Hortz fondly recalls a trip to Niagara Falls shortly after joining. Despite severe weather and power outages, she remembers the excursion as one of the group’s most memorable adventures. “We still had a wonderful time,” she said.
Ronnie Powell, who moved to Gloucester County more than 15 years ago, joined to meet new people and become involved in the community. “We have had some fun trips,” she said. “Thanks to Janet and the board, it gets us out. It keeps us going.”
For Elaine McCloskey, the appeal is the supportive atmosphere. “The members are always there for each other,” she said.
Darlene Shoop, who moved to the area in 2006, said joining the organization opened doors to friendships and deeper community involvement.
One of the newest members, Diane Ramer, waited patiently for her turn on the waiting list. “I didn’t know there was such a long waiting list,” she said. “It was a nice surprise when I got the call.” Ramer especially enjoys presentations by police officers, firefighters and attorneys.
For Ruth Harkins, 94, joining at her daughter’s urging proved life-changing. “I’ve found a bigger family,” she said. The group has allowed her to travel, develop friendships and remain active.
Aged to Perfection was founded in 2002 by Judy Daley and Margaret Morrison, who envisioned a place where local seniors could gather, socialize and participate in activities together.
The early years were challenging. Meetings moved between Walter Hill School, Episcopal Parish Hall, Stratton School Library and Bethesda Methodist Church as the group searched for a permanent home. Stability finally arrived in 2006 when the Woolwich Township Municipal Building opened, providing a reliable meeting space capable of accommodating the growing membership.
Over the years, numerous community leaders have contributed to the organization’s success, including Marge Giorgianni, Don Weisenstein, Beverly Shapiro, Janet Anderson, John Pirro and Jackie Williams.
The group’s impact extends beyond social activities. Jack Haas, a Vietnam veteran and President of the South Jersey Vietnam Veterans Association, said members have repeatedly supported veterans and active-duty military personnel.
“What I have done is come to the meeting and ask for support,” Haas said. Members have donated food, toiletries and personal care items, helping assemble and ship large care packages to troops stationed overseas.
Members of Aged to Perfection span a wide range of ages, including Dorothy Howery, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday. Despite their varied backgrounds, they share a common purpose: enjoying life together and supporting one another.
At biweekly meetings, milestones are celebrated, jokes are shared and laughter is plentiful. Members often describe the organization as an extended family.
For Janet Richardson, that sense of connection may be the group’s greatest achievement.
“It’s about people caring for one another,” she said. “When you come here, you’re among friends.”
At a time when loneliness among older adults continues to be a growing concern, Aged to Perfection stands as a reminder that friendship, community and purpose remain essential at every age – and that aging, when done together, can be truly perfect.
Here is information on other area Senior Citizen Groups.
EAST GREENWICH SENIOR CITIZENS COMMISSION: If you are over 55 years old and live in East Greenwich Township, please consider joining the East Greenwich Senior Citizen Commission. We meet the first Thursday of every month at 10 a.m. at the East Greenwich Township Municipal Building, located at 159 Democrat Road, Mickleton. We are welcoming new members as we work to increase our membership and become more active as a group with more planned activities, events and outings. For additional information, please email us at Seniors@eastgreenwichnj.com.
LOGAN TOWNSHIP SENIORS CLUB: If you are 50 or over come and join our group for some fun! We meet the first Monday of every month, except holidays, at the Gloucester County Library in Logan Township at 1 p.m. and the third Monday of the month at the Logan Twp. Municipal Building at 1 p.m.
SOUTH HARRISON SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB: If you are 60+ years old and reside in South Harrison Township, please join us for our meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11 a.m. at the South Harrison Township Municipal Building. New members are welcome! The group has speakers or activities and a free lunch each month. For additional information, please contact Terri Catalano at 856-981-3592 or email terricatalano@comcast.net.
Reminders of these meetings and information can also be found on the inside back page of each issue of The New Town Press.
By Erick Wakiaga
