History:

Independent Blessings was founded by Jennifer Lynch because of the inspiration of a very special person, Charlie Keane. Charlie worked as a cost engineer into his 80s, and received a college degree at the age of 83. He was an active Toastmaster for 45 + years, and served at the age of 97 as the District Governor. At 98, he purchased his first treadmill, and celebrated his 1ooth birthday by parasailing over Cape Cod.

Charlie was able to do many of these things despite hearing loss and a glaucoma diagnosis that left him “legally blind”. He had the help of a broad network of friends and family. Having helped un- officially for many years, in 2007, Jennifer took on an official role as “the helping hand” needed to navigate the stumbling blocks he encountered. We called the appropriate agencies to obtain low- vision assistance and resources, Jennifer picked up pharmacy needs, and accompanied Charlie to the airport as he headed to a conference, or to visit family. When Charlie needed help paying bills, organizing tax information, or searching for an assisted living residence, the helping hand was there. Charlie was an inspiration as he continued to strive. At 101 we found a personal trainer to help recover his strength from back surgery, and gain flexibility. We downloaded his favorite 50’s music from I Tunes onto his home computer. He visited a local high school at age 102 to encourage the formation of a new student (junior) Toastmasters Club. We recorded some of his favorite childhood memories on a voice recorder.

Now, Jennifer has created a service organization with the same approach. We encourage self reliance, which builds self-esteem, and respect. We are here to help you or your loved one to be independent, and “do it yourself”, but with a helpful loving hand to guide the way.