The story of Discovering What's Next™ began in Fall 2001 at a conference that brought together a community of Massachusetts professionals who sought to transform the current thinking about aging as a liability into a new concept: aging as opportunity.

This group identified the transition to retirement as a key milestone, and recognized that if we could capture the imagination of people at this important juncture, we might be able to mobilize the amazing experience and talents of this demographic on behalf of society and turn around the identification of aging with decline.

Unlike at earlier ages, such as the transition to college, the transition to retirement

is not well supported by existing institutions.  Could we create a new kind of community institution for mid-life and older adults?  One that facilitates this transition and serves as a gateway to information as well as a laboratory for inspiration and involvement?

The initial idea was that the public library in each community would be a natural place for this gateway.  In our efforts to pilot this concept in Newton, MA, we quickly learned the importance of involving other community organizations to broaden our support and we did so. 

In Fall 2002, this community collaboration launched a forum program to offer topics of interest to the over 50 population in our community. But the unstated reason was to learn more about what this population is looking for. And we did.  We found out that people wanted much more than information. They were seeking a sense of community and connection, to share and validate their experience and support the development of ideas that lead to action for both individual and community benefit.

DWN draws on the expertise of its volunteers and peers in the community to share knowledge, networks and advice across a broad range of issues – from civic engagement to financial security to employment to education to relationships. 

As our network has grown, so has the array of programs and services offered.

All of the activity is inspired and delivered by community members – by and for peers, their friends and families.