Our Vision
A culture of aging that is life-affirming, satisfying, humane and meaningful.
We recognize our need to create ways of living and working together different from the traditional models. The Pioneer Network supports models where elders live in open, diverse, caring communities. Pioneers are working toward transformational system change by both evolutionary and revolutionary means, using Pioneer values and principles as the foundations for change.
The movement toward a new culture of aging is a vital source of hope for millions of Americans trapped in the old system. The practice of person-directed care offers a relationship-based, values-driven alternative to the out of sight, out of mind institutional model that has plagued the system for decades. The movement is about promoting household living environments – in congregate settings as well as in home and community-based services – where elders and direct care workers are able to express choice in meaningful ways.
Definition of an Elder
"An Elder is a person who is still growing, still a learner, still with potential, and whose life continues to have within it, promise for and connection to the future. An Elder is still in pursuit of happiness, joy and pleasure, and her or his birthright to these remains intact. Moreover, an Elder is a person who deserves respect and honor and whose work is to synthesize wisdom from long life experience and formulate this into a legacy for future generations."
-Barry Barkan, Live Oak Institute
We welcome you to join our grassroots work. You can begin by learning about the Champions of Change in your area and sharing your own journey.
Download a one page .PDF version of the Pioneer Network Vision, Mission and Principles
