Big Hearts for Seniors (BHS) is gearing up for our fourth annual evening of storytelling, Big Hearted Stories: On Purpose which will take place on May 18th, 2023 in Ann Arbor. The event promises to be an inspiring celebration of connection and resilience.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from featured storyteller Ari Weinzweig, co-founding partner of Zingerman’s Community of Businesses. Vic Strecher, Ph.D., M.P.H., Professor of Health Behavior and Health Education at U-M School of Public Health will return as emcee.
The lineup of storytellers featuring Wallace Bridges, Kasey Hilton, Audrey Lucas, Traci Ruiz and Chris Mosley, is not to be missed. The storytellers will share true stories about discovering purpose in their lives after experiencing the grief of losing loved ones, unspoken love and respect of a father, accessibility needs of a child, responsibility of caring for an elder, and growth of opportunities over a long career. All the storytellers felt drawn to the theme ‘On Purpose,’ and each has a unique perspective to share.
Traci Ruiz shared, “My story is about helping the audience find their why with intention.” Audrey Lucas explained, “My story might be helpful to other people. I found, through exploration, my purpose and it may help others to find their own.”
The event will take place at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre/Michigan League, with a VIP reception and silent auction. The silent auction will feature hundreds of items including gift cards, art, experiences, sports memorabilia and more. The Silent Auction opens May 11th and closes May 18th, with all bidding being online for those unable to attend on person. The storytelling performance will begin at 7pm.
All funds raised from the event will support Michigan Medicine older adult community programs, which provide essential services and support to seniors. Together, Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels, Housing Bureau for Seniors, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Silver Club Memory Programs, Turner African American Services Council, and Turner Senior Wellness Program help older adults live their best lives.
BHS has a history of 18 years of fundraising events, including the Big House/Big Heart races, silent auctions, and documentary film screenings. In 2022, they hosted their first in-person event since 2019, “Big Hearted Stories: Journeys,” which was a huge success, raising over $134,000. This event is made possible thanks to our many generous sponsors, including this year’s Presenting Sponsor: U-M Health Advantage.
Each one of us has a unique purpose in life, and the stories that will be shared at Big Hearted Stories: On Purpose are a powerful reminder of this truth. This event promises to be an unforgettable evening that will uplift and inspire, and we encourage you to join us and be a part of this experience.
For more information and to purchase tickets or participate in the silent auction, visit http://victors.us/BHS2023
