Love is the answer.

It is my pleasure to serve as LITA (Love is the Answer)’s Executive Director. LITA grew out of the desire to bring happiness, friendship and meaning into the lives of lonely and isolated older people living in long-term care facilities in Marin. Marin resident Mae Wygant founded LITA in 1975 after volunteering with older people and seeing firsthand  the deep loneliness, isolation, and strong sense of loss many residents’ experienced. In the early years, LITA was coordinated out of Mae’s kitchen -- in fact some of LITA’s earliest volunteers were Mae’s friends, whom she recruited to visit isolated residents. This simple yet caring act of kindness gave birth to LITA which today has around 100 volunteers who work with 28 of the 55 facilities throughout Marin. These dedicated volunteers bring personal friendships to the residents, may bring their friendly dog, or even play music. With every visit and through every volunteer interaction, LITA strives to  bring the warmth and vitality of the Marin community directly to residents so that they feel seen, heard and cared about.

The need for LITA’s services will continue to increase as Marin’s population of adults over 60 continues to expand faster than any other county in California, according to the California Department of Finance.

Additionally, while loneliness and social isolation are not the primary causes of health issues in older people, numerous studies confirm they do contribute significantly to a decline in cognition and well-being.

LITA always has room for more great friends! If you are interested in volunteering please let us know. Or if you do not have time for weekly contact, there are other ways you might be able to help. Contact us to talk. I would love to meet you!

With best wishes for your safety, good health and a long and happy life,