Evelyn James: From Daily Acts of Care to Changing a Neighborhood
By Brandon Urias

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Evelyn, a longtime participant in the Suzanne Patterson Building’s Nutrition Program. A former nanny with a passion for caregiving, Evelyn has created a lasting impact on the community she now calls home. Here, she shares her life journey, her experience in the program, and the lessons she has learned along the way.

Q: Evelyn, tell us a little about yourself and your background.
Evelyn: I grew up in Georgia in a large family with three brothers and four sisters. At eighteen, I moved to Baltimore, Maryland, to finish my high school education. After that, I started my first job as a nanny for a handicapped boy. I found it incredibly rewarding, and it sparked my love for helping people, no matter their age. From there, I worked with children with disabilities and later transitioned into mental health care for older adults in a mental health institution. I loved interacting with the adults I worked with and getting to know them on a personal level. I learned a lot about the importance of communication and being present for others.

Q: You’ve faced many challenges throughout your life. How did those challenges shape you?
Evelyn: Moving around a lot because of my husband’s work was definitely a challenge. We traveled from state to state, but I always made sure my daughter had the support she needed. Despite the constant change, she excelled in school and later earned her master’s in social work from Temple University. I’m really proud of her. Those experiences taught me the importance of resilience: no matter how many times we moved or how difficult things became, you can always push through with the right support.

Q: How did you get involved with the Nutrition Program at the Suzanne Patterson Building?
Evelyn: When I moved to Princeton, I heard about the Nutrition Program and thought it would be a great way to connect with others in the community. I’ve been a participant for a couple of years now, and it has been a joy to meet so many wonderful people. I’ve even met a few neighbors from my apartment complex, which is always nice. It’s great to have this space to share a meal and have conversations—whether about life, current events, or just something fun. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect and feel part of something.

Q: What role has faith played in your life?
Evelyn: My connection to religion has always been a strong foundation for me. It’s what kept me going during tough times. Just knowing that there’s a higher power watching over me has been a source of peace and strength. I think faith can carry you through anything. Even when life seems difficult, remembering that you’re not alone makes a huge difference.

Q: What are the most important life lessons you’ve learned?
Evelyn: One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying connected to others—whether through family, friends, or community. Life can be hard, and sometimes you have to face challenges, but you don’t have to do it alone. My faith has also taught me to appreciate the small things. Sometimes it’s those simple moments that make life meaningful. And, of course, I believe that taking care of your body, mind, and spirit is key to living a long and fulfilling life.

Q: What advice would you give to others as they age?
Evelyn: Stay engaged with the world around you, keep learning, and don’t isolate yourself. It’s so important to keep connecting with others—whether through a program like this or by staying active in your community. Aging with dignity isn’t just about physical health; it’s about emotional and mental well-being too. And if you can find joy in the little things, that will carry you through.

Q: What’s next for you, Evelyn?
Evelyn: I’m going to continue participating in the Nutrition Program, of course! But I also want to keep exploring ways to stay connected with others and keep learning. I’ve always been curious, and I believe there’s always more to learn. I’m also excited to see my daughter continue to grow in her career—she’s an inspiration to me.