On the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, the energy at Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s Adult Day Program at its new Portland Center is unmistakable. That’s when a team of dedicated Unum employees pulls up a chair, joins the circle, and dives into whatever the afternoon brings – stretching and chair exercises, watercolor painting, lively sing-alongs to familiar favorites, or word and bingo games that get everyone laughing. Their presence has become a familiar and welcomed part of the room, bringing both joy and connection to everyone involved.
The Adult Day Program is designed for older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other memory or cognitive challenges. Through structured activities, social engagement, and compassionate support, participants can stay active, make meaningful connections, and enjoy moments of laughter and creativity. At the same time, the program provides crucial respite for family caregivers, giving them confidence and peace of mind while their loved ones are supported in a safe, engaging environment.
Kalina is one of the volunteers who brings that sense of community to life.
She has worked at Unum for almost five years and participates in the company’s volunteer efforts, which reflect a strong culture of giving back. Through their volunteerism, Unum supports organizations making a tangible difference in local communities. Southern Maine Agency on Aging is proud to be one of those partners, and that shared commitment brings Unum employees to the Adult Day Program in Portland twice each month, building continuity, connection, and care.
For Kalina, the desire to volunteer with older adults comes from her own family.
“I’ve always loved having friends of all ages,” she said. “And my grandparents on both sides of my family were huge influences. I loved talking with them, and now that some have passed or have memory issues, I wanted to get involved in a community that celebrates older adults and keeps them connected.”
She especially thinks of her maternal grandmother.
“I’m so grateful for her,” Kalina shared. “She visited every week, cooked dinner, took me to school, and helped with homework. Now I write letters to my grandmother who has memory impairments, because I know how important connection is. Volunteering here gives me a sense of purpose that I’m helping make those connections. We’re just having fun as humans together.”
From her first visit onward, she was struck by how quickly the members connected with each other – and with her.
“The program had only been open about six months when I started volunteering, and it surprised me how well everyone knew each other,” she said. “The first time I volunteered, we were playing chair soccer together. People were playfully teasing each other, cheering for each other, and within minutes they were including me and the other volunteers. It struck me how quickly we all became friends. We had a shared understanding and were already making inside jokes with each other. It shows how fast just a little bit of time and connection can bring people together. We were all in such good spirits, laughing, and smiling – we didn’t want the fun to end.”
The welcoming atmosphere continued when she returned for another visit.
“The second time I came back, I was immediately recognized,” she said. “They asked, ‘Do you have a joke for us?’” During her first visit, Kalina had shared a quick joke during a ball game: Why is Cinderella bad at soccer? Because she kept running away from the ball! It was a small moment, but the laughter from members and staff made it clear she already belonged.
For Kalina, moments like these highlights why programs like the Adult Day Program matter.
“Social connection is so important,” she said. “Loneliness is a real issue, and this program creates a wonderful sense of community. It’s a fun, low-pressure environment where people can just be together.”
She has also seen how the program helps families feel confident as they explore whether it’s the right fit for their loved one.
“I’ve been present during tours and free trial visits,” she explained. “It’s reassuring for families to see the environment firsthand rather than guessing. The members I met during tours are now part of the program because they enjoyed it so much.”
Members clearly enjoy when the Unum volunteers are there.
“They ask if we’re coming back,” Kalina said. “They’re happy to see us. We chat, get to know each other, and connect during activities. It is a really open and inclusive space.”
And for anyone considering volunteering, her advice is simple:
“No prior experience is necessary. You just need to like fun and like being around other people.”
What begins as a volunteer shift often turns into something more: new friendships, shared laughter, and small moments that brighten someone’s day. For Kalina and her fellow Unum employees, it’s a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful contribution isn’t measured in hours or tasks – it’s simply showing up, pulling up a chair, and being part of the circle.
Through their ongoing partnership, Unum and Southern Maine Agency on Aging are helping create a community where older adults feel valued, supported, and connected – and where families can rest a little easier knowing their loved ones are in good hands.
Learn more about our three Adult Day Programs here.
