Javascript is not enabled.

Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.

CLOSE
Search
CLOSE
Search
3:52

Surviving Widowhood: How One Woman Moved Past the Grief

Launched as a weekly newsletter in 2020, The Ethel is a celebration of women embracing the power and privilege of aging. Named in honor of AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, The Ethel has blossomed into a supportive national community of women 55+, many of whom met online in our closed Facebook group, The Ethel Circle, and then later in person. Today there are local Ethel Gathering Groups in 48 states through which tens of thousands of women have found connection and made friends. The Austin Gathering Group is just one — one with a very special Ethel volunteer organizer. The video tells her inspiring story.


Find Friendship & Community

The Ethel Community supports and celebrates women in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond through our Social Groups. Find the one that suits you best or join them all!

Four women standing together outdoors, dressed in casual travel attire with hats and handbags. The background features illustrated mountains, a city skyline, an airplane, and a sun, symbolizing travel and adventure.

The Ethel On-The-Go

Join a like-minded community of travelers who prove you're never too old for adventure.

Illustration of four older adults using smartphones and a laptop, arranged around a green semicircle with a pink background. A stylized drawing of a laptop with glasses on the screen and speech bubbles above suggests digital communication and online interaction.

The Ethel Circle

Join other women in the convo on navigating aging. Uplift each other and break stereotypes.

Three older adult women sitting together at a table, enjoying coffee in red cups. The background features pink and green geometric shapes with playful decorative elements like sparkles, exclamation marks, and the word “Enjoy!” in handwritten style.

Local Gathering Groups

Meet new friends in your area or virtually. Or start a new Ethel Gathering Group near you!