Pinole Accessible Living Program
Join our FREE expert-led workshops this fall at the Pinole Senior Center!
About the PAL Program
The Pinole Accessible Living (PAL) Program is a new initiative designed to help residents make their homes safer, more accessible, and better suited for aging in place. Through a free workshop series held at the Pinole Senior Center, PAL offers practical guidance, expert advice, and hands-on tips to support home upgrades that promote long-term independence.
Whether you’re a senior, a caregiver, or simply someone interested in making your home more livable, PAL is here to help you navigate home safety improvements—from simple modifications to larger upgrades. The program focuses on four key goals: accessibility, safety, independence, and aging in place.
support from aarp
These workshops are made possible due to the generous support of AARP through the AARP Community Challenge. The AARP Community Challenge is a grant program to make tangible improvements in communities that jump-start long-term change. It is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for people of all ages. To learn more, visit AARP.org/Livable.
Workshop series – summer and Fall 2025
Workshop 1: Designing for All: Foundations of Universal Design
Join us for an engaging workshop led by Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist Fritzi Gros-Daillon. You’ll learn how to make your home safer and more livable using AARP’s award-winning HomeFit Guide. Perfect for older adults, caregivers, or anyone interested in improving home accessibility!Â
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Workshop 2: Permits 101: What you need to know
Join us for an engaging workshop led by Pinole’s Chief Building Official, Keith Marks. You’ll get practical tips on navigating the permitting process for home improvements—what requires a permit, what doesn’t, how to avoid common mistakes, and where to find support along the way.Â
September 4, 2025
Workshop 3: Step-by-Step: Making Your Home More Accessible
Simple upgrades to improve safety, comfort, and independence, hosted by Dave Beddoes, an expert in the industry
September 25, 2025
Workshop 4: Power Smarts: Boosting Energy Efficiency at Home
Cut costs, increase comfort, and support sustainability– learn about cost-saving rebates available now at the State, regional, and local level—including special rebate programs just for Pinole residents. Presented by Contra Costa Conservation and Development, MCE and Rising Sun.
October 9, 2025
Workshop 5: Hiring with Confidence: Finding the Right Contractor
Learn how to spot red flags, avoid scams, and choose licensed, trustworthy contractors for your home projects.
This Senior Scam Stopperâ„ workshop offers practical tips to safeguard your money, your home, and your peace of mind, presented by the California State Licensing Board
October 23, 2025
Workshop 6: Safe & Ready: Home Safety and Emergency Preparedness
A three-part series on November 6, 13 and 20 focusing on essential steps to protect yourself and your home before a crisis. Presented by Contra Costa Fire Protection District.
November 2025
Home Fire Safety Older Adults
November 6, 2025
Fire Extinguisher Use & Safety
November 13, 2025
Emergency Preparedness
November 20, 2025
workshop logistics
All PAL workshops take place on Thursdays from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the Pinole Senior Center (2500 Charles Ave, Pinole, CA). These sessions are designed to be convenient, informative, and welcoming—perfect for a midday learning break!
🍪 Light refreshments will be provided free of charge.
🍽 Lunch is also available for purchase, but must be pre-ordered in advance.
To place a lunch order, please call the Senior Lunch Order Line at (510) 418-0313. Orders can be placed Mondays at 8:00 AM for the following week.
For more information about the Senior Center’s lunch program and services, visit: pinole.gov/recreation/senior-programs
Become a PAL Ambassador
Want to help make Pinole a safer, more accessible place to live—one home at a time? Become a PAL Ambassador and support the Pinole Accessible Living (PAL) Program!
PAL Ambassadors are friendly, community-minded senior volunteers who help us spread the word about our fall workshop series and make sure everyone feels welcome and supported. No special experience needed—just a passion for helping others!
What do PAL Ambassadors do?
- Share the word about PAL workshops with neighbors, friends, and local senior and disability advocacy groups
- Assist with sign-ups, especially for those who are digitally shy
- Support workshops by greeting attendees, setting up refreshments, and helping the event run smoothly
- Gather feedback from participants to help improve future sessions
Time Commitment
Be available to attend at least three of the workshop sessions this fall—plus some flexible outreach you can do on your own schedule.
Ready to Help?
Click below to sign up and we’ll get in touch with next steps!
