Carina Dantas, Action Chair of NET4Age-Friendly, was part of a delegation of the COST Program to the satellite events of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, between 12 and 15 September.
These included a reception at the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations where she was one of the four speakers, presenting the work of the COST Action to members of the Delegation of the European Union, the United Nations, representatives of Member States, ambassadors and American representatives from various areas.
This journey began in 2017 with the creation of the SHAFE concept, which stands for Smart Healthy Age-Friendly Environments, aiming to promote happier and healthier communities, created by Carina Dantas from SHINE 2Europe, and Willeke van Staalduinen, from AFEdemy (Netherlands).
Carina Dantas mentions that "SHAFE started with a naïve enthusiasm, as the little things begin. Thanks to many committed organizations and individuals, we have turned a small conviction and dream into a solid movement." Later on, SHAFE implemented through the NET4Age-Friendly COST Action was recognized as a Good Practice for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, currently having more than 700 members in 51 countries.
The SHAFE concept is the driving force behind many projects that have been further developed. By bringing together technology, health and social support, housing, the environment and communities, it is possible to promote smart, adaptable and inclusive solutions that help improve and support independent living throughout the course of life, regardless of age, gender, disabilities, cultural differences and personal choices.
The future now passes through the SHAFE Foundation, currently being implemented, to further explore the results and this wide network for the benefit of our communities.
More information at: https://www.cost.eu/action-contribute-un/