Evidence of Success

 

Summary of Evidence

The cognitive, psychological, and physical health benefits of our program have been expressed by participants through numerous testimonials; reported by site supervisors through consistent impact reports; published in professional journals and presented at national and international conferences by professional researchers in the psychology, social work, family studies, gerontology fields; featured on TV and radio, and in numerous blogs, magazines, newspapers, books; recognized by numerous social change awards; and personally endorsed by the president of the AARP Foundation. Additionally, practicing psychologists often refer patients to our program as a component of their mental health treatment plans.

 

About Our Founder

Our Founder Benita Cooper’s leadership and impact has been recognized with ceremonial legislative certificates from two State Senates: the PA Senate (the state where Best Day began); and the NJ Senate (the state where she now lives). The PA Senate says that under her leadership, The Best Day of My Life So Far demonstrates “the highest standards of service” and contributes “in a meaningful way toward a better and more productive society.” The NJ Senate describes her as a “woman of strong character and fortitude” with a “meritorious record of excellence within all the spheres of her life and work.” Benita is also a recent recipient of Philadelphia Business Journal’s prestigious Minority Business Leader Award.
 
In addition, Benita is often featured in the local and regional press. ABC TV Network, which has spotlighted our organization’s impact through the years with two different program segments, introduced Benita with these words, “We often hear that one person can make a difference. Today we introduce you to one such person.” A conference chair has described Benita’s presentation style as “confident, poised, and enthusiastic,” adding that she “relates so well to both young and older audiences.”