Looking Ahead

By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-03-21 15:04:09.504046-05:00

A Message from State President Charlie Desmond

It seems such a short time ago when I first joined AARP Massachusetts as state president. From our work supporting 50+ workers to our successful voter education gubernatorial candidate forum last fall, we accomplished so much in 2006. And 2007 is promising to be an even more exciting year for AARP Massachusetts. A snapshot of what's in store:

Advocacy

Though we have a new governor and a new political landscape, our priorities remain focused on health care, long-term care and economic security for 50+ workers. This year, we plan to work with the governor and state legislators to:

  • Ensure that the health care reform law provides affordable and meaningful benefits for Bay State residents.
  • Call for full funding for Prescription Advantage, the state's prescription drug assistance program that works in tandem with Medicare Part D.
  • Provide a range of long-term care options for all residents, including high quality affordable skilled nursing facilities, senior housing, and home and community-based services.
  • Continue to fund older worker retraining grants.

 

Community Service

AARP Massachusetts will also continue to support the community service programs that make a difference in the lives of so many Massachusetts residents, including:

  • AARP Money Management
  • AARP Tax-Aide
  • AARP Driver Safety Program
  • GenerationsInc/ExperienceCorps mentoring program for Boston Public School children

 

Life@50+ Comes to Boston

We are looking forward to September, when Life@50+ | AARP's National Event & Expo comes to the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Life@50+ features seminars with celebrity speakers, concerts, workshops and exhibits. The state office will be recruiting hundreds of volunteers to help staff the event. Learn more about Life@50+.

Divided We Fail

Last but definitely not least, AARP is undertaking a movement to compel our nation's leaders to take action so that all Americans can count on health and long-term financial security. The campaign is called "Divided We Fail" because everyone—individuals, businesses, policy makers and elected officials—must work together to create solutions that benefit all generations. Divided We Fail focuses on positive change and our commitment to current and future generations. Read about the campaign online, and stay tuned for more information about Divided We Fail activities in Massachusetts.

Keep in Touch

Check back here often to see what AARP is doing for you in Massachusetts. There are also many ways to get involved. You can:

  • Get your AARP Massachusetts news now. Sign up to receive email updates by sending us an email.
  • Help AARP advance our 2007 legislative agenda. Join our grassroots network.

 

Together, we will make a difference. It's going to be an exciting year!

Charlie Desmond is the State President of AARP Massachusetts. He is currently Executive Vice President of the Trefler Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to urban education reform.

Related Articles

More Articles on Politics & Advocacy »

Comments

preview