The Center for Aging & Community Receives $50,000 Gift to Advance Programs Supporting Older Adults

The Center for Aging & Community (CAC) at the University of Indianapolis received a generous $50,000 gift to strengthen its existing programs and launch new initiatives that support older adults across Indiana.

The gift was made by Mary Ann and Derek Wallace, building on the long-standing legacy of support established by the Ober family during the days of Indiana Central College. Over the years, the Ober family’s generosity has supported students through the C.S. Ober Scholarship, enhanced campus spaces such as Ober Dining Hall, and advanced aging-related programs like those offered by CAC. As the daughter of the Obers, Mary Ann has continued the commitments championed by her parents and extended by her cousin Nelle, who trusted that she would carry forward the family’s dedication to UIndy—particularly its work in aging services. 

“We met with Emily Tisdale and the CAC team and thought this was a great opportunity. We’d really like to help promote the Center for Aging & Community.

“In the end, the programs are what matter most. We see ourselves as the connectors—helping provide the resources so that these programs can continue to develop, and CAC has some new ones that are really exciting.”

The gift comes at a meaningful moment as CAC prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary of advancing aging-related education, research, and community engagement.

“As we approach CAC’s 25th anniversary in 2026, this gift propels our mission in meaningful ways,” said Emily Tisdale, executive director of CAC. “It enables us to expand support for family caregivers, foster intergenerational connections, and support emerging innovations in aging services through our Impact Fund. This investment reflects a shared commitment to ensuring older adults can thrive in their communities.”

The gift will bolster several key programs and initiatives, including:

The Aging Expert Speaker Series 

The Aging Expert Speaker Series brings together professionals, caregivers, and community members to explore emerging issues and best practices that support the health and well-being of older adults. Through this series, CAC is equipping Indiana’s aging network with the knowledge and connections necessary to build healthier, more inclusive communities for older adults.

Caregiver Resource Group

Established in 2018, the Caregiver Resource Group has supported UIndy faculty, staff, students, and community members who care for aging or ill loved ones. The group meets monthly via Zoom to discuss topics such as family and community, long-distance caregiving, fall prevention, and hospice guidance. The program empowers caregivers while fostering resilience, connection, and compassionate care.

Bridging Generations Through Technology 

This new initiative will connect UIndy students with older adults through hands-on digital skill-building sessions. CAC will host on-campus workshops where students help older adults confidently navigate technology—from telehealth platforms and online resources to social media and communication tools. The program will also offer paid student internships, providing valuable real-world experience in program coordination, training material development, and community engagement.

CAC Impact Fund

The CAC Impact Fund offers micro-grants to emerging programs, startups, and community-driven projects that enhance the lives of older adults and advance innovative approaches to aging services. 

To learn more about the Center for Aging & Community and its work, visit the CAC website.