Our group scenario began with a 52 year old widower by the name of Joseph who resides in Culver City. Newly single, he is struggling to overcome many of life’s adversaries. For one, he is overweight and feels lonely inside the house his wife and him used to share. After finally deciding to meet with a social worker he has set the following goals: Schedule a 6 month weight management program kick started with $50 worth of fruits and vegetables, find an affordable condominium. In addition to these lifestyle changes he will also be expanding his creative horizons by taking theatre and dance classes at West LA College. Finally he wants to revamp his look so he is getting his favorite suit laundered at the community dry-cleaners for his date tonight (Yikes!).

On our community immersion we first explored the numerous resources within the senior center and other non-profit organizations. Obviously the senior center would be a perfect match for our friend as it offers numerous services he can utilize since the entrance age is 50 years old. Furthermore the fitness center inside would be a great way to meet his weight loss goal as personal trainers are available. The fees for the fitness center range from $65 semi-annually to $120 annually and the center is also conveniently open seven days a week. He can also manage his food intake using one of two personalized healthy weight loss programs. The first is Jenny Craig which serves both men and women within the surrounding urban areas. Prices and duration vary according to individual needs and targets those who are at high risk for diabetes and health problems. The second option is offered by Wayne Douglas of Elite Health Foods who incorporates medical history and current lifestyle into a nutrition fitness and weight loss program. He also offers advice as well as natural supplements for life’s other problems such as hormone balance and erectile dysfunction. Simultaneously he can balance and maintain his weight loss by becoming a club member at the nearby Ralphs supermarket and sticking to a strict nutritious diet.

With regards to housing, the Culver City senior center offers a Housing Alternatives Support Program which matches older adults to possible roommates since he wishes to move into a smaller place. He has found an available condominium for $1,500 per month in gated community which also conveniently has a gym. Finally in order to complete his transition he has decided to enroll in bereavement classes at the senior center and once healed take more advantage of the Culver City dating scene which includes date.com.

As future social workers, we have found that Culver City is a community that prides itself on the wealth of resources it offers to its residents of all ages. It’s a beautiful city that offers its members the opportunity to share the physical and internal values of the community.