Let's Work Together for Future Generations

Source: AARP.org | April 25, 2007

Like all grandparents, I cherish my grandchildren and find joy in watching them explore the world. And, I worry about their future. What can I do to make their future more secure?

Minnesota's state demographer, Tom Gillaspy, estimates that next year, the number of workers turning 62 in Minnesota will increase by 30 percent—a huge jump that begins the baby boomer retirement wave.

Guess what, folks? This means we have some challenges at our doorstep. The need for adequate health care and financial security weigh on the minds of AARP members in Minnesota, whether they are retiring or still working. Once, people could look to their employers, one another and their government to be financially secure and to get the health care they needed. Today, the burden of saving for retirement, paying for health care and supporting aging parents falls much more heavily on individuals. For many Minnesotans, those burdens will be overwhelming.

I am proud that AARP—here in Minnesota and at the national level—is dedicated to championing the causes of health care and financial security for future generations. If we don't act, the next generation will be the first in U.S. history to be less well off than their parents.

Our 670,000 members here in Minnesota can be a powerful voice for change—in St. Paul, in the White House, in Washington and in corporate boardrooms. Throughout the AARP Minnesota Member Update, you will see some of the key issues AARP is highlighting in our state. I urge you to consider becoming more engaged with us as we work to find common ground and bring about the change that would make our grandchildren proud.

It's not about us. When I look into the eyes of my grandchildren, I want them to know that we worked to make their future brighter. I am proud to live in a state where I believe we can put politics aside and work to make change happen.

For more information about becoming involved in the advocacy, education and community service work of AARP Minnesota, email aarpmn@aarp.org or call 1-866-554-5381.

Hubert H. "Skip" Humphrey
AARP Minnesota State President