How a New Glen Rock Group Is Helping Neighbors Age Happily at Home
A growing number of Glen Rock residents are embracing a new way to age in place together. The Glen Rock Neighborhood Network (GRNN), officially launched, is a volunteer-powered, membership-based initiative that helps older adults stay engaged, supported, and independent while remaining in their own homes.
Inspired by the nationwide Village Movement, which spans more than 360 communities through the Village-to-Village Network, GRNN aims to fill in service gaps and build stronger neighborhood bonds. It operates under the guidance of North Jersey Villages, a nonprofit organization fostering community-based aging solutions throughout Bergen and Passaic Counties.
The kick-off event, attended by over 60 residents,. Co-led by Glen Rock residents Teresa Gilbreath and, “The energy in the room made it clear. People are ready to look out for one another in more intentional ways,” said Mary Barchetto, GRNN Co-Chair. “GRNN reflects Glen Rock’s spirit. It's about strengthening connections and sharing practical support among neighbors.”
GRNN offers members access to trained volunteers who assist with transportation, errands, minor household tasks, light tech help, and friendly visits. Members also enjoy social gatherings, educational programs, and an online community forum. Full members, available to Glen Rock residents age 55 and older, can access all services. Social members receive invitations to events and access to online resources.
“GRNN gives older residents peace of mind, knowing there's someone nearby who can help with the little things,” said Teresa Gilbreath, GRNN Co-Chair. “But more than that, it's a way to stay socially connected and engaged in town life.”
Members are encouraged to become volunteers themselves, contributing to a growing pool of neighbors helping neighbors. Volunteers can choose from a range of roles such as offering rides, tech support, or joining one of GRNN’s teams in outreach, events, fundraising, and more.
Michele Silver, GRNN Coordinator, noted, “We’re building a community network that values everyone’s time, experience, and stories. Whether you need a hand or want to lend one, there’s a place for you in GRNN.”
The annual membership fees for GRNN, effective as of April 1, 2025, are as follows: an individual full membership is $150 per year, a household full membership for two people is $225 per year, and a social membership is $60 per year. GRNN offers several types of discounts. Through grant support, membership fees can be waived for individuals with annual incomes below $52,142 and for households earning less than $59,209. Members who join mid-year are eligible for a pro-rated fee based on their enrollment date. These membership fees help cover essential operating costs such as administration, background checks, and website maintenance, along with support from grants and donations.
As one attendee at the 2024 launch event said: “The Village concept gives me hope and confidence to face the challenges of aging. It’s a well-designed, community-based idea and it feels like Glen Rock.”
That sentiment captures the spirit behind GRNN’s mission, bringing neighbors together to share time, talents, and care in meaningful ways. As the network grows, it reflects the town’s commitment to making Glen Rock not just a place to live, but a place to thrive at every stage of life. With its blend of volunteerism, resource-sharing, and community connection, GRNN is helping redefine what it means to age in place — in Glen Rock, and together.
For more information, visit http://grnnvillage.org, email grnncoordinator@northjerseyvillages.org, or call 201-739-8425. GRNN’s core team meets regularly in the basement of the Glen Rock Public Library, and residents of all ages are invited to get involved and help grow the network.