Could You be a Writer?
Cynthia Weinmann, MS, CP APMP • September 21, 2020
When we think of writers, it’s usually someone typing away on a computer and writing the next great novel. We read about writers who work for 8 hours a day (world-famous Nora Roberts, for example), and writers who persevere until they publish their first book – then keep going!
That’s one kind of writer, to be sure. But the world of writing is so much more than creative writing or fiction writing. There’s technical writing, marketing writing, proposal writing. There are even people who specialize in writing Alt Text, which describes document graphics for people who are visually impaired.
Writing is a great job – most writing can be done remotely, and often does not require specialized credentials. You should know how to use Microsoft Word or other word processors as a start. It also takes some discipline and research to explore what kind of writing you can do. Do you have a great vocabulary, know grammar, and like to explain things clearly? Technical writing might be good for you. It you like the idea of getting people excited about a project, you might enjoy proposal writing.
But how do you get started? Fire up your online search engine and take it for a ride. Google “proposal writers,” “technical writers,” or “copy writers.” Take a close look at the requirements – can you apply if you just know who to write? Also take a look at results that explain how to be a writer. If the idea of writing proposals intrigues you there’s a place for that (APMP). There are a lot of resources online that can help you (start with this one:
How to be a Writer). And, check out your local library and community college for relevant programs. There’s a world of writers out there – come join us!
Cynthia Weinmann, MS, CP APMP
Strategy Horizon Consulting - The Future is in Sight
Louisville, Kentucky Area
Must Read Newsletter
Sign up for news and events
Newsletter
Most Popular
As another school year begins, I’m reminded that learning isn’t confined to the classroom, it happens throughout our lives. In my Chinese heritage, there’s a famous saying attributed to the philosopher Confucius: 三人行, 必有我師”, which translates to “When three persons walk together, there is always a teacher among them.” The wisdom is simple yet profound: yes there is always something to learn from others. Recently, I had the privilege of learning from S. Orlene Grant, Founder and CEO of this Foundation, during a workshop sponsored by the Jewish Federations of North America’s Center on Aging, Trauma, and Holocaust Survivor Care. Alongside Lorenzo Ramirez of Colorado, we spoke on a panel about how a person-centered, trauma-informed (PCTI) approach shaped our caregiving journeys. Orlene shared movingly about caring for her late parents, who had endured the realities of life in segregated America. Though we came from different backgrounds—African American, Latino, and Chinese immigrant—we all understood the critical importance of acknowledging past traumas in the lives of those we care for. PCTI care, introduced in 2015 by the federal Administration for Community Living (ACL), is an approach to services that integrates an understanding of trauma into programs, policies, and practices. The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) has been a leader in championing this model, particularly for Holocaust survivors. I first encountered PCTI principles through a JFNA webinar during the pandemic, and it changed my caregiving approach. JFNA defines PCTI as “a holistic model of care that prioritizes health and well-being by accounting for the role of trauma across the life course, resisting re-traumatization, and promoting strength, agency, and dignity.” For me, these principles became essential while caring for my late mother. My parents, immigrants from China, carried the deep scars of war and displacement. Understanding those experiences helped me become a more effective advocate in navigating the healthcare system on their behalf. For example, when completing medical intake forms, I often couldn’t provide information about previous generations—my parents had fled their hometown during the Communist army’s siege, leaving family and records behind. I made sure to explain this to my mother’s doctors so they understood the gaps in her medical history. Before adulthood, my parents had already endured the Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945) and, in the late 1940s, years of displacement during the Chinese Civil War. They were detained in a refugee camp in Southeast Asia for nearly four years before being rescued to Taiwan. These years of illness, malnutrition, and hardship took a lasting toll on their health—challenges that resurfaced decades later when I was their caregiver. During the workshop, Lorenzo and Orlene shared equally moving accounts of caring for loved ones whose lives were marked by trauma. Together, we recognized what the ACL calls “the long-term and adverse consequences of trauma” and how PCTI care empowers caregivers to respond with compassion, cultural sensitivity, and advocacy. Together on stage, we shared a bond across cultures and were united in knowing that we had tried to do our best as family caregivers for those we loved.
It is not surprising that during these unprecedented times, anxiety disorders are the highest reported mental health issue in the US with 42.5 million Americans claiming to suffer from this illness. We can experience greater mental and emotional fatigue. We may think that an aspirin, a nap, or a drink of wine will make things better. And sometimes it does. And sometimes it doesn’t. Similar to mistaking a fractured bone for a simple sprain, mental and emotional well-being often requires dedicated attention—particularly during challenging periods. The World Mental Health Day, initiated by World Federation for Mental Health and the World Health Organization in 1992, was created for times such as these. It aims to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health. This year’s theme emphasizes ensuring access to services during crises, highlighting the importance of maintaining support for mental and emotional health. Effective strategies include coping with adversity, developing healthy mechanisms for managing stress, nurturing relationships, and addressing mood disorders. The following recommendations aim to support overall mental health: Acknowledge how you’re feeling. Notice and name your feelings. There’s no right or wrong way to feel. Talking to a trusted person or seeking professional assistance can be helpful. Quick Facts and Statistics About Mental Health | Mental Health America Participate in calming activities. Utilize stress-management techniques such as meditation or yoga to facilitate relaxation. Consider limiting digital device usage. Incorporate regular physical activity. Engage in exercise—walking, stretching, chair yoga, swimming, hiking, or other suitable forms of movement—to enhance well-being. Foster community connections. Building and sustaining relationships with biological and chosen family, colleagues, and friends can alleviate loneliness and provide essential support networks. Optimize sleep hygiene. Establish consistent bedtime routines, such as budgeting 30 minutes for winding down, create a calming environment, and unplugging from electronics. On this World Mental Health Day, we are reminded that we are not alone, and we do have support. If you're feeling depressed or experiencing other mental health concerns, know that these are treatable health conditions. Remember that wherever you are on your life’s journey, prioritizing mental health enables a fuller and more rewarding life. Dr. Imani Woody is an internationally and nationally recognized thought leader and an advocate of women, people of color and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/same gender loving (LGBTQ+/SGL) people. For more than 20 years, she has been a personal and professional coach assisting people of color and women to live their lives more fully through visioning. 2. Mastering Sleep Hygiene: Your Path to Quality Sleep
We are living in resourceful times, where industries are adapting quickly and workers of all ages are finding new ways to contribute. Layoffs and shifting priorities are reshaping the workplace nationwide. While these changes affect everyone, they also highlight the stability, perspective, and creativity older workers bring as essential strengths for employers navigating uncertainty. Research shows that job searches can sometimes take longer for people over 50. Yet the very qualities that come with experience such as problem-solving, adaptability, mentoring, are the same qualities that can spark innovative solutions and move organizations forward. During National Employ Older Workers Week (September 21–27) , the JCGF is celebrating the value of older professionals and shining a light on bold, creative strategies that keep them visible, hired, and in demand. Unconventional times call for unconventional approaches, and older workers are well-positioned to lead with ingenuity. Here are a few practical moves to consider, whether you stay in your current role or prepare for something new: Pitch a Transition Plan If you sense shifts at work such as new leadership, restructuring, or reduced communication, consider a proactive conversation. Propose a phased transition where you mentor a successor, consult part-time, or take on a more strategic role. Even if the answer is no, offering solutions shows foresight, flexibility, and leadership. Teach What You Know Your decades of insight can become a workshop, lunch-and-learn, or online course. Whether through community colleges, virtual platforms, or inside your company, turning knowledge into learning opportunities increases visibility and extends impact. Try AI as a Career Companion AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, or Claude, can streamline tasks, brainstorm ideas, or polish your resume. Being able to say, “I’ve been experimenting with AI to improve my productivity” is a standout in any interview. Start Something Small You don’t need a business loan to launch a consulting gig, seasonal side hustle, or encore project. Think local, low-cost, and aligned with your passions. What do people come to you for or ask you for advice on? What skill could you monetize in a few hours a week? Reconnect Strategically Dust off old contacts, not with a resume but with curiosity. Ask how others are navigating this landscape. Offer encouragement. One reconnection a week can lead to surprising opportunities, sometimes in roles that were never advertised. Returning to the Office Yes, many have grown to prefer remote work. But remember, most careers were built in traditional, in-person environments. That history of navigating office dynamics, mentoring across desks, and collaborating face-to-face is a strength. In interviews, do not hesitate to frame it that way. Your Action Step Pick one idea above and try it this month. Whether it sparks income, a conversation, or renewed confidence, it’s a step forward. National Employ Older Workers Week is not just about appreciation. It’s a reminder that the next chapter may look different, but it is still yours to design and your ingenuity will keep moving both you and our communities ahead. Have a question or topic you'd like us to explore in a future blog? Drop us a note—we're listening. Donna Satterthwaite Vice Chair, Juanita C. Grant Foundation CEO, MotivAction Coaching
This month marks 5 years as a PALS/VCE Ambassador with JCGF, supporting clients facing isolation. We've built lasting friendships since the start.
Co-generational programming isn’t just about gathering people of different ages in the same room, it’s about weaving a rich tapestry of stories, laughter, and mutual respect that bridges generational divides. Rooted in purpose and built on joy, these programs create intentional spaces where elders and youth can truly s
I am often asked, “Why did you decide to create the Juanita C. Grant Foundation?” The answer lies in a combination of experiences and a deep commitment to community service. My journey in the Greater Washington area began in the late 1980s, when I took on leadership roles at the Washington, D.C. Commission on Mental Health, serving for six years and leaving as a Mayoral appointee. My career then led me to head the quality assurance department at the Northern Virginia Mental Health Institute, consult for the Joint Commission on Accreditation, and serve as the Executive Director of Medical Homes for the D.C. Delmarva Foundation. In 2008, I founded The Grant Group, LLC, a healthcare management firm that worked across the Greater Washington area, particularly in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. Through this work, I gained an intimate understanding of the barriers to accessing medical care, inadequate housing, and insufficient transportation options that created stress and hardship for many. However, as a contractor, my ability to drive lasting change was limited. Contracts came with defined scopes of work, and while recommendations could be made, follow-up and implementation were left to the client organizations. It was disheartening to return to previous engagements only to find that critical improvements in patient care and clinical standards had not been implemented, or that conditions had worsened. A turning point came when I worked on a contract addressing the high morbidity rate among African American women in Prince George’s County—a rate that consistently ranked as the highest in the region. This frustration, combined with the enduring influence of my parents, who were both community and civil rights activists in my hometown of Gary, Indiana, inspired me to take action. With the support of colleagues, family, and friends, I founded the Juanita C. Grant Foundation in 2014 as a nonprofit in Maryland, honoring my mother’s legacy of community activism. Since its inception, the Juanita C. Grant Foundation has dedicated itself to serving older adults in Prince George’s County through four key areas: elder abuse and fraud prevention training, workforce development and training, promoting the health benefits of social connectedness, and community engagement. Over the years, we have built extensive partnerships to provide training, resources, and forums to amplify the needs of older adults. Our Elder Abuse and Fraud Prevention Workshop Training Series has educated more than 10,460 residents. The 50+ Workforce Initiative has empowered over 1,600 older adults to connect directly with potential employers, bypassing traditional human resource barriers. Our Village Connector Experience program, designed to reconnect socially isolated older adults with family and friends, now reaches individuals across 22 states. Additionally, the Foundation hosts focus groups, town halls, and online seminars to further elevate the voices of older adults. As we move into 2025, we are excited to expand the Village Connector Experience to foster intergenerational connections, bringing older and younger individuals together to build sustainable relationships and combat social isolation. We invite you to join us on this inspiring journey as we continue to develop and implement impactful programs that serve both older and younger generations.
Joining the board of the Juanita C. Grant Foundation in 2019 was a pivotal moment in my professional and personal journey. As someone deeply committed to the well-being of older adults, I was drawn to the Foundation’s mission, which addresses critical issues that impact everyone—if they’re lucky enough to reach 50 and beyond. Under the leadership of our CEO and Founder, Ms. S. Orlene Grant, the Foundation has established itself as a vital resource for the 50+ community, tackling challenges such as financial fraud, elder abuse, social isolation, and employment navigation. Serving as Vice Chair of this hands-on board has been a deeply rewarding experience. This was my first time being part of a board where every member actively engages in shaping and executing initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives. We don’t just sit in meetings and make high-level decisions—we roll up our sleeves and contribute to programming that has tangible impacts. Whether it’s organizing workshops on financial fraud prevention or creating opportunities for older adults to remain in or return to the workforce, the work we do directly improves the lives of those we serve. One of the most pressing challenges we address is social isolation. Many older adults find themselves disconnected from their communities, which can take a toll on their mental and physical well-being. The Foundation fosters meaningful connections through our Village Collector Program designed to bring people together, ensuring that no one feels forgotten or left behind. Similarly, our workforce initiatives help older adults navigate an ever-changing job market, offering guidance and support for those seeking meaningful employment opportunities that align with their skills and experiences. Being part of this board has reinforced my belief that advocacy and action go hand in hand. It has also shown me the power of collaboration—working alongside passionate, dedicated individuals who share a common goal has been both inspiring and fulfilling. But as much as we have accomplished, there is still so much more to do. That’s where you come in. The Juanita C. Grant Foundation needs more board members—leaders who are willing to contribute their time, expertise, and passion to advancing our mission. If you care about the well-being of older adults and want to be part of a team that drives real change, I encourage you to consider joining us. Whether your strengths lie in strategic planning, community outreach, fundraising, or program development, your contributions can help shape the future for countless individuals navigating the later stages of their careers and lives. Serving on this board has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career, and I invite you to explore how you can make a difference. If you’re interested, let’s talk. Visit jcgfdn.org to learn more or reach out to our CEO, Orlene Grant for more information.
When writing a blog, my purposeful intention is to engage and hopefully start a dialogue. As Board Chair of the Juanita C. Grant Foundation, I have many opportunities to execute this desired goal. When considering joining the board, I assessed and appraised their 'manifesto,' wanting to know if the foundation met one of my core beliefs, self-empowerment. Six years later, I feel empowered, and more importantly, I feel connected to a larger community through the engaging dialogue that our collective manifesto fosters. A Manifesto has long been used to articulate a view and critique of the past, present, and future. Having one that connects shared visions allows one to address and challenge the systemic causes of inequality in all things that affect our everyday lives. It engages us in a commitment to social justice, a cause that is crucial for our collective well-being. Poems, books, pamphlets, plays, artworks, and documentaries embody the stories and visions of a cause important to the creatives, i.e., artists, filmmakers, poets, etc., that want others to know more about or for personal fulfillment. What is a personal manifesto? It's your declaration of what you want in life, a tool that helps you prioritize what is essential and what you want to achieve. More importantly, your personal manifesto captures what makes you feel most fulfilled. This is relevant to those interested in personal development, as setting realistic and achievable goals requires transparency, honesty, practice with intentions, and empowering your core beliefs and values. Writing a personal manifesto is a powerful tool for motivating you to commit to your growth and well-being. Is a manifesto a good idea, and why? Yes! It keeps you focused. Expands your beliefs and philosophies that are the core of your life journey. How do I write my personal manifesto? Start with I love, I believe, and I am committed. Remember, you are simply declaring your truth and love of wisdom. You seek to better understand yourself, your personal and social relationships, and connectedness in your community while practicing self-care with compassion. I will check on you in the coming year to see how your manifesto is evolving. Reach out to lcolbert@jcgfdn.org if you would like to start a dialogue. I encourage you to be optimistic and have a sense of curiosity. Change can only come with action. Be kind. Be brave. Be you. Lanita Colbert Board Chair, Juanita C. Grant Foundation
As the calendar turns to a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your career journey and consider the possibilities ahead. This isn’t just a new year—it’s a chance to harness a lifetime of experience, insights, and creativity to take your career in an exciting new direction. Starting fresh can feel daunting, and it’s also an opportunity to lean into the unique momentum you’ve built over the years. Your skills, resilience, and ability to adapt to challenges are assets that set you apart. Employers increasingly recognize that age-diverse teams drive innovation, foster creativity, and build stronger organizations. By stepping forward, you’re not just opening doors for yourself—you’re shaping a more inclusive and dynamic workforce Rediscover Your Strengths Your career has given you a wealth of experiences to draw from. Reflect on moments that brought you joy and success. Were you a mentor who helped others grow? A problem-solver who streamlined operations? A relationship builder who earned clients’ trust? These transferable skills can fuel new opportunities and position you as a valuable contributor. Upskill for the Future The job market evolves constantly and staying relevant builds confidence and demonstrates adaptability. Online platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and AARP’s Work & Jobs section offer accessible courses and certifications. Many libraries provide free access to some of these tools with a library card. Upskilling prepares you for new roles and shows employers your commitment to lifelong learning. Refresh Your Network Networking remains one of the most effective ways to find new opportunities. Reach out to former colleagues, join professional or community groups, or attend local meetups. Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your goals and recent achievements. Sharing your excitement about new possibilities can inspire others to connect with you. Explore New Possibilities A new year offers the chance to view your journey with curiosity and new eyes. This stage offers freedom to design a career that aligns with your passions and lifestyle. Whether it’s part-time work, consulting, volunteering, or starting a small business, embracing flexibility can lead to fulfilling opportunities. Your Impact on a Dynamic Workforce By embracing this time of change, you’re advancing your goals and contributing to a broader societal shift. Older workers bring depth, diversity, and resilience to the workforce, driving growth, creativity, and collaboration. Your participation strengthens workplaces and communities. This year, let your experience guide you toward the future you’ve imagined. The momentum you’ve built is a force for change—not just for yourself, but for the workplaces and communities you’ll inspire along the way. What’s your next step toward a new beginning? Share your thoughts, and let’s inspire one another to make this a year of transformation. What other job search topics would you like to hear about? Send us your suggestions—we’d love to hear what’s on your mind and how we can help you navigate your career journey! --Donna Satterthwaite, Board of Directors Vice Chair, Juanita C. Grant Foundation CEO, MotivAction Career Coaching
When considering the ideal retirement, some of us may picture ourselves surrounded by family and friends, traveling with a spouse or partner, or meeting new friends while volunteering or picking up a new hobby. Finally spending quality time with our chosen people is the vision many have for their golden years. Unfortunately, it may not be the reality for all retirees. Some may experience bouts of loneliness or social isolation during retirement. Social isolation is defined by the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute on Aging as a “lack of social contacts and having few people to interact with regularly.” The loss of a spouse or friends, moving to a new area, experiencing age-related health challenges, among other things, can contribute to the problem. Social isolation can even lead to financial challenges. Because scammers know the impact a lack of connectedness can have on someone, they can take advantage of those experiencing it through a relationship investment scam. In this type of scam, a stranger connects with you on social media or through a dating or messaging website or app. Or a random person might text you pretending to be an old friend. They may even send you a message like, “So sorry, but I’m going to be late for lunch!” that seems intended for someone else, hoping you’ll respond out of politeness. After you begin to communicate with the stranger, they might offer financial advice or express romantic interest. But what they’re also offering socially isolated people is someone who wants to talk to them, someone who wants to form a connection with them. They often spend months building trust - through friendship, romance, or an offer to help achieve financial goals - before they begin to defraud you. The scammer might even suggest meeting in person but come up with plausible excuses for why it never happens. Once they’ve established a friendship or relationship, scammers might offer investing advice or suggest you use the financial adviser they use. No matter how trustworthy someone might seem, don’t make investment decisions based on the advice of anyone who makes unsolicited contact with you online, through an app, or text message. Do your own independent research and ask questions . What sets this type of scam apart from the classic romance scam is that scammers aren’t asking you for money directly. Instead, they’re asking you to invest your money, often in complicated schemes that turn out to be fake. The scammer may show you what appears to be returns on your “investments” on what looks like a legitimate investment app or website. You may even be able to withdraw money at first. But eventually, the scammer steals your money. Most of these scams are operated internationally, with very little chance you’ll ever see your hard-earned money again. If you receive an email or text message from a person, number, or email address you don’t know or recognize, that’s a red flag of fraud — especially if the message is vaguely worded or appears aimed at someone else. Don’t respond. Instead, report it and block these senders from your phone or messaging app. Similarly, don’t share any information relating to your personal finances or identity (including your bank or brokerage account information, tax forms, credit card, Social Security number, passport, driver’s license, birthdate, or utility bills) with someone you don’t know who contacts you online, on a social media platform, or through text message. For additional details about relationship investment scams, read our Investor Alert . Be sure to check out our Investor Alerts and Bulletins on a regular basis so you can be aware of the latest types of investment scams and how to avoid them. Visit Investor.gov for more information about saving and investing. To report securities fraud, go to sec.gov/tcr . By taking these precautions to protect the money you’ve been saving and investing for your entire life, you can help keep your finances safe and preserve your vision for retirement.