July 6-12, 2026

Cheer Up the Lonely Day arrives every July 11, urging us to extend a hand to those who might be feeling isolated. This day serves as a vital reminder that a small act of kindness can significantly brighten someone’s world. Reach out to a friend, visit a family member, or organize a community gathering to foster genuine connection. This day hopes to spread awareness about the adverse and long-term effects of loneliness. It is celebrated on July 11 across the United States and other countries have also started to observe the day in their own way. On this day, people are expected to take some time out of their busy schedules to bring happiness to those who are lonely or feel neglected. Chronic loneliness can have serious health consequences, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and premature death. It’s a public health concern comparable to smoking or obesity.

Loneliness can be temporary for some, while for others it may be a perpetual state of being. It can affect people at any age and from all walks of life. It does not discriminate and can strike us at any point in our life. Loneliness can be harmful to a person’s mental, physical, and social health. Thus it is important to seek and offer company as much as we can. Cheer Up The Lonely Day encourages us to bring joy and cheer into the lives of those who are struggling with loneliness. According to a 2023 advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General, roughly half of U.S. adults report experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. This highlights the widespread nature of the issue the day addresses.

Would you like to help someone who is lonely? Start by simply reaching out with a phone call, text, or visit. Reach out to a friend or family member you haven't spoken to in a while. A simple phone call, text, or visit can make a huge difference to someone feeling isolated. Listen actively, offer practical help if needed, and invite them to social activities. Consistency in your efforts can make a lasting difference.

Our Friendly Caller Program is a community-based outreach service that pairs trained volunteers with older adults, people with disabilities, or others at risk of social isolation for regular phone conversations. These calls provide companionship, emotional support, and welfare check-ins. The volunteer usually calls on a weekly basis at scheduled times. Conversations may include casual discussion, wellness check-ins, or referrals to additional services if needs arise.



The program provides an invaluable connection by facilitating regular telephone conversations between trained volunteers and participants.



We are looking for participants that would like to join the program as well as volunteers who would like to help make calls to brighten someone’s day. Please contact Judy for more information at JudyS@JoslynCenter.org or 760-895-4655.

It's the time of year when Joslyn Center reaches out to our friends and donors to support nutrition service programs for older adults at risk for food insecurity. These programs include the Joslyn Community Food Bank, Morning Bites and other programs throughout the year for our members. Your donation helps ensure that we can continue to fight hunger right here in the Coachella Valley.

The campaign annually takes place at the end of season and helps support these critical services in our community during the hottest months of the year. Please consider a donation of any amount and click below to contribute.

What does the Joslyn Community Food Bank mean to you?

“Buena comida para mis nietos y familiares. Muchas gracias. Dios los bendiga.” (Good food for my grandchildren and relatives. Thank you very much. God bless you.) – Germán

“The place is fantastic; everyone is nice & friendly. The best place ever.” – Lois

“Am very thankful for everything you do. You all are very much appreciated. God bless you and your crew.” – Robert

“Food Bank helps me a lot with my food bills.” – Annie 

The Joslyn Pickleball Club held an indoor tournament on Thursday and Friday, June 25-26. 21 players and one alternate competed in a hybrid format of Bunco and King of the Hill. This was the most successful so far and seemed to create friendly competition fun for all.

Club players paid a $10 entry fee and were split into two groups: the Dink Dynasty and the Pickleball Wizards. A total of 63 games were played games over two days with rotating partnerships to determine one man and one woman from each group as the winners. The declared victors were David Capra and Linda Smith from the Dink Dynasty group, and Tim Taylor and Marivic Erskine from the Pickleball Wizards. Each of the four winners walked away with bragging rights and a beautiful medal supplied by Molly and Jay Thorpe.

The collected entry fees will go towards future improvements, whether equipment or otherwise, as determined by a vote from the players. Special thanks to Debbie Balkey, Coach Henry Basile, Marivic Erskine, Mike Garai, Colleen Kelly, and Linda Smith for helping to organize the scoring sheets and tabulation.

Winners left to right: Marivic Erskine, Tim Taylor, Linda Smith, David Capra.

The Bucket List

2007, 1h 37m

Billionaire Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson), and car mechanic Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) are complete strangers, until fate lands them in the same hospital room. The men find they have two things in common: a need to come to terms with who they are and what they have done with their lives, and a desire to complete a list of things they want to see and do before they die. Against their doctor's advice, the men leave the hospital and set out on the adventure of a lifetime.

Dark Comedy/Adventure

Meet at

Island Boba Sushi & Poke

A casual eatery serving a variety of poke bowls and sushi rolls, plus boba drinks.

36-901 Cook St #6 near Gerld Ford, Palm Desert

Click image for restaurant information.

Please call John at 760-989-7031 for reservations.

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Don't forget to bring an interesting story or topic.

UPCOMING DATES & RESTAURANTS

July 16 - Platinum Cowboy, Palm Desert (4:00pm)

July 23 - Bohemios Prime, Palm Desert (4:00pm)

July 30 - La Quinta Brewing Co., Palm Desert (4:00pm)

The City of Rancho Mirage is putting on their annual Taste of Summer Rancho Mirage, July 23 until August 16. This is an annual community tradition that brings people together to enjoy local flavors while supporting local restaurants during the slower summer months and helping raise funds for local nonprofits. Residents and visitors will enjoy delicious food, cool treats, and great specials.

Many Rancho Mirage restaurants are participating by offering discounts or specials on dining. Click on the link below to visit the Taste of Summer website and see all of the local restaurants where you can get sizzling specials, refreshing treats, and unforgettable local dining experiences.

To participate in these great discounts, you will need to purchase a Taste of Summer wristband for $10. You may get these at the front desk at Joslyn Center or at many other local nonprofits. We will receive a portion of the wristband purchase, so saving on Rancho Mirage dining will also benefit Joslyn!

The Business Partner program is one of the reasons Joslyn Center is able to keep membership dues and activities low fee or free. Our business partners also sponsor events and social programs, helping to defray costs. To learn more about Gold Business Partner services, please click their logos below. 

For a full list of Joslyn Center Business Partners, please click below.

For information on becoming a Business Partner,

please contact Alex at AlexG@JoslynCenter.org or 760-895-4652.

The Joslyn Center provides extensive programs and services for older adults in Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and surrounding Coachella Valley communities.

Thank you to the Cities of Indian Wells, Palm Desert, and

Rancho Mirage (Cove Communities) for their ongoing support.