CSDA Charity Launches ‘Retired Not Expired’

The Chatmore School Development Association has launched “Retired. Not Expired” to celebrate and support Bermuda’s retirees, beginning with retired teachers.

A spokesperson said, “As Bermuda and the global community prepare for a significant demographic shift by 2030, with a growing population of retirees, the Chatmore School Development Association [CSDA], Registered Charity #989, proudly announces the launch of a bold and inspiring new initiative: “Retired. Not Expired.”

“This timely programme emerges from meaningful conversations with retirees across the island and aligns with the Four Pillars of Bermuda’s National Seniors Strategy 2024–2030: Healthy Aging, Empowered Citizens, Age-Friendly Environments, and Community. “Retired. Not Expired.” is a powerful call to action that recognizes and uplifts the continued contributions of Bermuda’s retirees far beyond their final day in the workforce.

“There seems to be a possible disconnect between the value our retirees offer and the recognition they receive,” says a CSDA spokesperson. “Too often, ‘retired’ becomes synonymous with ‘done.’ But this initiative flips that narrative. Our retirees are living legends, rich in experience, wisdom, creativity, and community insight.

Launching in Heritage Month

“The programme has launched this month, Bermuda’s Heritage Month – a deliberate choice that reflects the initiative’s belief that retirees are both the fruit of our community’s past and the seed of its future.”

Starting with Retired Teachers

CSDA Programme Innovation Lead and local educator, Angela L. Fubler, explains, “We begin by honouring Bermuda’s retired teachers because every retiree had a teacher. Education is one of the greatest forces shaping society. These individuals did not just deliver curriculum; they nurtured our confidence, curiosity, and character. Many continue to educate us through mentorship, storytelling, and example.”

Why Not ‘Seniors’?

The spokesperson said, “In this context, the phrase “Retired. Not Expired.” was introduced as a breakout session during the inaugural No School Is an Island 2025 Atlantic-Caribbean Education Conference, hosted by CSDA in partnership with Chatmore British International School and the Council of British International Schools [a membership organization that represents more than 400 schools and organisations globally].”

It quickly struck a chord. “We heard clearly from those approaching or newly in retirement—they did not identify with being called ‘seniors’,” Fubler shared. “They still feel full of energy, purpose, and passion. One said, ‘I’ve still got gas in the tank.’ Others spoke of finally having the time to pursue creative or entrepreneurial projects, support loved ones or give back on their own terms.”

However, not all feedback was optimistic. Some retirees shared how the initial excitement of retirement gave way to isolation, financial insecurity, and emotional challenges. “That’s why CSDA is committed to helping retirees feel seen, heard, supported—and useful,” Fubler added.

The Retired. Not Expired. Ethos

The spokesperson said, “At its core, the programme is designed on CSDA’s foundational values: Collaboration, Cohesion, Confidence, and Community. Its impact is woven into all aspects of CSDA’s core initiatives: Family, Advocacy, Chatmore, and Education.

““Retired. Not Expired.” will directly support the Community pillar of Bermuda’s National Seniors Strategy by reinvigorating the ‘village’ through intergenerational activities—promoting belonging while reducing isolation, neglect, and exploitation.”

“We’re building awareness that honours the past, embraces the present, and invests in the future,” says co-developer and semi-retired educator, Jerome Stovell, “We believe retirees deserve to be vibrant, valued, and engaged—and that starts with creating spaces where their input shapes the programming.”

Co-Creating with Retirees

The spokesperson said, “While CSDA has a few ideas to get started, the initiative’s direction will be shaped with retirees, not just for them. “These are active, passionate individuals who still want to learn and contribute,” says the team. “Many have asked for a space, a hub, where they can feel useful and connected. That is what we will aim to provide.

“Not all trees bear fruit—but all trees can offer shade, greater perspective, and a place to gather. That is the spirit of Retired. Not Expired.

How to Get Involved

“The organizers will launch with an announcement celebrating Bermuda’s retired teachers. If you are a retired teacher or know someone who is worthy of recognition, please email csda@chatmore.org with the subject: Retired Teacher Recognition. Deadline for submissions: 31 May 2025.

“Retirees or soon-to-be retirees wanting to take part or contribute are also encouraged to connect.

“Join us in honouring the teachers who have shaped Bermuda—and let us help them continue to do so.

““Retired. Not Expired.” – Because the end of a career is not the end of a contribution.”

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