When people imagine life in a senior living community, they often picture card games, crafts, and bingo nights. While those activities certainly have their place, they tell only part of the story. At Grand Oaks, community life reflects the diverse passions and lifelong interests of our residents—including a deep commitment to civic engagement. 

One of the most meaningful examples of this is Civic Voices, a residents-led group focused on understanding and discussing the core principles of American government and the challenges it faces today.  

Far from being a political forum, Civic Voices is about participation and thoughtful dialogue. And above all, it is about recognizing that civic life does not end at retirement. 

As a Grand Oaks resident, Ambassador Edward “Ed” Marks, the founder of Civic Voices, often says, “We do not want to be involved just as residents of an assisted living community—we want to be recognized as U.S. citizens with a voice.” 

Read on to see how Civic Voices at Grand Oaks brings this vision to life, creating meaningful opportunities for residents through thoughtful discussion and shared purpose. 

A Community of Lifelong Citizens 

Civic Voices was founded by Ambassador Marks to create a welcoming space where residents could exchange ideas on current affairs, public policy, and social issues in a respectful and informed way.  

As the nation approaches its 250th birthday, Civic Voices empowers residents to reflect on the country’s founding ideals and their continued relevance in shaping an engaged, informed citizenry. 

“Civic life does not retire—it keeps calling,” Ambassador Marks shares. For many residents, Civic Voices answers that call. 

Residents explore how the federal government was designed to balance power and prevent concentration, as well as other founding principles and their impact on today’s world. 

Activities for Purpose-Driven Living 

Choosing a senior living community does not mean giving up the parts of yourself that have always mattered. For many people, staying informed and participating in civic life have been lifelong pursuits. At Grand Oaks, those passions are not only welcomed but encouraged. 

Civic Voices demonstrates that aging can actually create new opportunities for engagement. With more time to reflect and connect, residents often find themselves diving deeper into topics. 

Ambassador Marks brings a lifetime of experience to the group. As a former U.S. diplomat, he understands the complexity of government and public service firsthand. Reflecting on his career, he notes, “Young American Foreign Service officers are accustomed to being teased by friends…and the role of a professional diplomat is little known or understood.” 

Through Civic Voices, he helps demystify public service and broaden understanding of how institutions function. 

Connected to the Capital 

Grand Oaks’ location in Washington, DC, also offers residents the chance to stay connected to the broader community. Recently, the President of the DC UCLA spoke with residents at Civic Voices, sharing insights about the organization’s work.  

Events like these highlight how retirement in the nation’s capital offers unique access to new opportunities. From guest speakers to cultural and civic connections, residents continue to experience all the city has to offer. 

Engagement at Every Stage of Life 

Grand Oaks is proud to offer a wide range of activities, from wellness programs to cultural outings in the heart of our nation’s capital. For some, it is painting or music. For others, it is engaging in conversation about the Constitution, public institutions, and civic responsibility. 

Residents who join Civic Voices or our other lively discussion groups discover that retirement can open doors rather than close them. It can be a time to ask bigger questions and engage in meaningful dialogue with neighbors who bring rich life experiences to the table. 

Contact us today to schedule a tour, meet our residents, and discover firsthand the vibrant activities and opportunities that make Grand Oaks such a dynamic place to call home.