Yáʼátʼééh!
My name is Kalina Ross, Founder & CEO of The Golden Age Foundation. Yáʼátʼééh "Ya Ta Hey" (It is good, it is well) is a phrase my friend Pops' and I say to greet each other with joy! Read more below!
About Kalina Ross
For over two decades, I’ve dedicated my life to nurturing others—whether it was caring for infants, toddlers, and youth, guiding families toward healthier lifestyles as a health coach, or creating vibrant, community-centered events that brought people together in meaningful ways. My path has always been about connection, compassion, and building spaces where people feel seen and supported.
Throughout my 20+ years in event planning and community development, I’ve launched and implemented countless projects that empowered families and enriched lives. Most recently, I helped lay the foundation for a nonprofit focused on youth mental health and wellness—an experience that deepened my commitment to serving others at every stage of life.
But something shifted. I began to feel a powerful calling to a group often left in the margins: our elders. The ones who once shaped our communities but now find themselves isolated, forgotten, or without family. I saw a profound need—and a beautiful opportunity to make a difference.
That realization led to the creation of The Golden Age Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring connection, purpose, and joy in the lives of those in their golden years. We serve with love through meaningful companionship, acts of service, and holistic care—nurturing mental well-being, reducing isolation, and rekindling a spirit of adventure. Through tailored programs, home support services, and genuine human connection, we honor the wisdom of age and create a community where every elder feels seen, valued, and loved.
This is my most meaningful work yet. And it’s just the beginning.
Golden Age's Bestie!
Meet Pops'
Pops, 82, is a Colorado native whose wisdom, warmth, and love for nature have touched countless lives. An avid reader and lifelong learner, Pops became my elder friend and one of my greatest inspirations five years ago when I rented one of his apartments. What began as a rental agreement quickly blossomed into a deep, life-changing friendship. Over time, he became family—grandpa to my children and a guiding light in my life.
Through Pops, I witnessed firsthand the deep isolation many elders face, and his unwavering companionship became the seed for The Golden Age Foundation. His generous spirit, quiet strength, and endless knowledge have not only helped shape this mission but also helped me find new purpose during some of my most uncertain times. Pops reminds us that every stage of life holds value, wisdom, and the power to connect.
