At Vivalon, we believe in the power of community, lifelong learning, and the strength of personal connections. One of the most inspiring stories that embodies these values is that of Julianna, a long-time participant in our programs who has embraced every challenge life has thrown her way with resilience and determination.
Julianna’s journey began in Hungary, where she was born and lived through the turmoil of the Hungarian Revolution. Forced to flee her homeland with her brother, she found herself in Austria, then England, and eventually Canada before making her way to the United States. With each move, she adapted, persevered, and built a life through hard work, eventually finding a home in San Rafael, where she has lived for over 56 years.
She spent nearly three decades as a cook at Marin Country Day School, a job she loved. But retirement brought new challenges, including staying connected with her family abroad. She mentioned that in 2018, her daughter in Texas bought her a smartphone that wouldn’t stop making noises while she was driving in the car. Julianna took the smartphone, packaged it up, and sent it back to her daughter.
Despite her frustrating first interaction with a smartphone, Julianna has been learning how to navigate technology with digital literacy classes and one-on-one tutoring at Vivalon—step by step, at her own pace. “My older son who is in Hungary has a nice family, a business, two daughters, and a son. That’s why I’m trying to get on my iPad, so I can communicate with them because now I have 3 great-grandchildren.” Since she can’t travel to Hungary to be with her family, she decided to learn how to Skype them from her iPad.
She appreciates the patient tutors who have guided her and values the opportunity to learn in a supportive environment.
Beyond technology, Julianna remains engaged in the Vivalon community, attending social gatherings and sharing stories with friends. Her humor, warmth, and resilience remind us all that lifelong learning is possible at any age.
Her story is a testament to the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the power of human connection.
At Vivalon, we are honored to support members like Julianna in continuing their journeys of learning and connection. If you or a loved one are looking to build new skills, stay engaged, or simply meet wonderful people like Julianna, we invite you to explore our programs. Together, we can continue to learn, grow, and stay connected.
To learn more about our digital literacy program, click here.
