Redwood Coast Village — 10 Years of Aging Well

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Redwood Coast Village (RCV), celebrating a decade of community-driven effort to help older adults in Humboldt County age with independence, dignity and connection.

What began as an exploration of how to better support aging in place has grown into a thriving Village built on neighbors helping neighbors.

The groundwork for RCV began in 2013 when the Area 1 Agency on Aging (A1AA) received a St. Joseph Care for the Poor grant to support its Volunteer Driver Program and to gauge community interest in developing a local Village. To better understand local needs, A1AA surveyed more than 3,000 Humboldt County residents about aging and the Village concept — grassroots organizations designed to help their older adult members via services provided by vetted volunteers. The strong response showed clear local interest in new, community-based approaches to aging.

Public conversations about forming a Village began in November 2014, bringing together residents who believed that aging should include strong social ties and local support. In February 2015, the name “Redwood Coast Village” was chosen by popular vote, reflecting early community ownership of the idea.

In May 2015, a 12-member steering committee began meeting to shape the organization. They gathered input from established Villages in other communities while designing a model suited to Humboldt County’s rural character, from Fortuna to Trinidad. Because most Villages operate in urban areas, this rural adaptation required creativity and collaboration.

By 2016, Redwood Coast Village began serving members. From the start, RCV focused on both practical support and social connection. Volunteers help members with transportation, errands and access to resources, while social and educational activities foster friendships and reduce isolation.

This blend of support and engagement has helped many older adults remain active and connected in their communities.

A significant milestone came in July 2023, when Redwood Coast Village became a program of the Humboldt Senior Resource Center (HSRC). This partnership expanded RCV’s capacity and sustainability, providing additional resources to grow its membership and volunteer network. At the same time, RCV has maintained the personal, member-centered approach that defines the Village model. Members also benefit from increased access to a wide range of senior services through HSRC.

Today, Redwood Coast Village remains an organization of, by and for its members. Its story reflects the power of community collaboration and a shared commitment to improving the experience of aging in Humboldt County.

To celebrate this milestone, Redwood Coast Village will host a 10th Anniversary Celebration and Resource Fair on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 1-3 p.m. at HSRC’s Eureka Heritage Café, 1910 California St. Community members are invited to attend, learn more about local aging resources, meet volunteers and members and celebrate a decade of connection and service.

Looking ahead, RCV continues to build on its strong foundation of strengthening connections, expanding support and helping older adults age well and thrive where they call home.

Tasha Romo is HSRC’s director of Nutrition & Activities.