A new community resource to help Dartmouth residents over the age of 50 live independently could be starting up by June 2017.

The program, called the Coastal Neighbors Network, is a soon-to-be non-profit organization that will help Dartmouth residents remain in their homes while staying connected with the community, said board member Kate Fentress at an informational meeting on November 11.

Fentress began forming the organization in 2015, and in January formed a Board of Directors and began having meetings to discuss the scope and structure of the organization. She was inspired by the concept of “aging in place,” which encourages people to stay in their homes as they age, as opposed to relocating to an assisted living facility or nursing home.

“We’re not really a service provider per se, we are a connector,” Fentress said. “We will connect members to resources they might need.”

During the presentation, Fentress updated a crowd of about 50 on the current status of the organization. The group has already put out an advertisement seeking an Executive Director, and has received several responses.

Over the next few months, Fentress and the board plan on fundraising to have an entire year’s worth of operating capital – about $75,000 – on hand before fully launching in June 2017. They’re also building a database of volunteers, and reaching out to organizations such as the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, the YMCA, and the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center to build a network of events for members to enjoy.

The program is membership based, with costs ranging from $350 to $900 a year, and will include transportation to medical appointments, supermarkets and other destinations; access to a network of trusted contractors, handymen, and electricians who have been background checked and reviewed by the organization; assistance in finding doctors, and navigating medical billing and forms.

The board also plans on providing a calendar of events — including movies, lectures, concerts, and exhibits — both on the website once it launches, and in print. It’s an important component, Fentress said, because isolation can be a problem for those over age 50.

“You might lose your spouse, and might not drive at night,” Fentress said. “All of a sudden, your world gets smaller.”

For more information about Coastal Neighbors Network, visit the group’s Facebook page at facebook.com/coastalneighborsnetwork. Those interested in volunteering, becoming members, or want more information can contact Kate Fentress at (508) 642-5284, or via email at kate@fentress.net.