Hillsboro Civic Leadership Academy urges city steps to reduce senior isolation

Mikayla Hennetti, city management program coordinator in the city manager’s office, introduced the 2024 Hillsboro Civic Leadership Academy on Nov. 5 and said the cohort focused on one question: "how can the city assist aging community members who often experience feelings of isolation and loneliness to feel more included and visible." The six-week academy partnered with Portland State University and local agencies to research barriers and propose city-led responses.

The student presenters laid out four main challenge areas: information and resource visibility, transportation access, technology proficiency and safety, and other social or health-related contributors such as hearing loss and addiction support. Joanna Pabasteran, a student presenter, said many older residents are unaware of existing services and proposed a dedicated, easy-to-find…