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Week 4: Building Bridges Between Us
Building bridges instead of walls involves showing curiosity about what others are doing as well as bonding with others over shared interests. Asking questions can spur people to reveal their personal stories and to ask you about your own. Simply put, it also demonstrates that you care.

two women doing yoga


Activities for October 19-25

This week's theme is Building Bridges Between Us. Shared interests can lay the groundwork for those of us seeking lasting friendships. No doubt building bridges requires courage, but it can also open you up to the richness of other people’s journeys. So, who will YOU reach out to this week?


shows the number 1 with pink, beige and green Ethel brand accent colors.
Participate in a discussion, in-person or online, around a shared interest.
Isn’t it great when you find someone who loves the same things you do?

Tip: Try joining a book club, online forum, or local meetup. The easiest way to make new connections is to start with something you already care about.
shows the number 2 with pink, beige and green Ethel brand accent colors.
Share a recommendation with someone (book, show, product, website).
Help someone cut through the noise by recommending a standout something or other that you truly enjoy. Hopefully they’ll return the favor!

Tip: Instead of just saying, “this book or movie was good,” say what you loved about it. That makes it easier for them to connect with your recommendation.

shows the number 1 with pink, beige and green Ethel brand accent colors.
Reach out to a younger family member and show interest in something they’re focused on.
If you want to be closer to a niece or nephew, godchild or grandchild, take that first step and initiate contact. And ask questions! Act like you’re blown away by their interests and activities — because you probably will be!

Tip: Be curious and enthusiastic. Even if their interests are new to you, your attention will mean the world.
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Invite someone to join you for a class or event — in person or online.
AARP’s Virtual Community Center offers a wide range of virtual events.

Tip: Keep it light, because the focus is on time together, and not mastering the class or event.
shows the number 5 with pink, beige and green Ethel brand accent colors.
Ask someone in your life for advice or feedback on something, in person or online.
When someone asks YOU for advice or feedback, doesn’t that make you feel valued?

Tip: Choose something that feels meaningful but low-stakes, like advice on a recipe, style choice, or a book to read next.
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Ask a friend or family member who is older than you to share something they’re proud of — or even just a fond memory.

Tip: This is a beautiful way to honor someone’s experiences while strengthening your bond.

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We want to hear from you!

Your feedback helps us make The Ethel Connection Challenge even better—whether you couldn’t participate as much as you planned or completed every challenge! Tell us which activities you loved, what felt most meaningful, and how we can improve. The survey button below will connect you to a third-party hosted website, where you can submit your feedback.





Challenge Calendar

Check back here every Sunday evening to reveal the next week's activities.


Week 4 Connection Challenge shows activities for building bridges