UR Community Cares builds innovative, community-based programs that connect people and empower their lives through technology, education, recreation, and personalized support. At the core of our mission, we believe everyone deserves equal access to essential tools, resources, and opportunities, regardless of age or ability.
In addition, our programs help towns and local communities fill critical service gaps, strengthen partnerships, and expand access to care. By creating meaningful connections, we work to decrease loneliness and social isolation while improving the overall well-being of older adults and individuals with disabilities. Through hands-on instruction and outreach, we teach essential technology skills, share valuable educational resources, and offer engaging, inclusive activities that promote lifelong learning.
Furthermore, we provide specialized services and targeted outreach to individuals with visual and hearing impairments, ensuring accessibility and equity remain at the forefront of our work. Ultimately, our goal is to build a stronger, more connected, and more accessible community where everyone has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and live independently.
Who We Are
“My personal experience with my Meme having Alzheimer’s, combined with seeing my patients struggle with limited support at home, made me realize I could link neighbors to help one another,” said Michelle Puzzo, co-founder.
As a result of these experiences, Michelle developed the idea for UR Community Cares in 2019 after treating physical therapy patients who needed assistance at home but could not afford private care and did not qualify for state-funded programs. At the same time, she recognized a powerful opportunity: community volunteers could provide meaningful support to aging and disabled neighbors, especially if they simply knew who needed help.
Because of her medical background, Michelle was uniquely positioned to identify the physical challenges, age-related changes, and daily barriers many individuals face. Consequently, she transformed her professional insight into a community-driven solution. Today, the organization continues to grow through her leadership, dedication, and commitment to building stronger, more connected neighborhoods.
Our Mission/Vision
“In 2035 there will be 78 million people age 65 and older compared to 76.4 million under the age of 18. In other words, the elderly population will outnumber children for the first time in the country’s history-a demographic shift that poses a unique set of public health challenges.”
— 2018 US Census Bureau Report
Watch Us
UR Community Cares TV programs produced at Valley Shore Community TV in Westbrook can be watched by clicking this link: Valley Shore Community Television (cablecast.tv)
UR Community Reach is our latest programs produced at Cox Community TV in Manchester can be watched by clicking this link: COX Public Access Channel 15 – Manchester
YouTube link to UR Community Reach
If you would like to be featured on our program, please contact us at 860-430-4557.
