In response to the ongoing recession and high unemployment rates in Connecticut, AARP and the AARP Foundation joinedwith the Urban League of Southern Connecticut to open several AARP Foundation WorkSearch Centers in the state, which provide hands-on help to adults over age 50 who are looking for work, or to improve their career skills. AARP has developed a host of new tools and resources designed specifically for the needs of 50+ workers that are available online and at the new WorkSearch Centers in Stamford, Bridgeport and New Haven.

AARP also is working with the AARP Foundation to alleviate hunger among older adults. An estimated 3.6 million people aged 65 and over live in poverty in the United States. Most of these people could be receiving food assistance. But only 34 percent of eligible older Americans get that food assistance. Over the last two years, AARP Connecticut and our volunteers have been helping to promote the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) which helps low-income adults and families buy the nutritious food they need to stay healthy. We created a do-it-yourself SNAP toolkit www.createthegood.org/snap and launched a community outreach campaign, featuring a Connecticut statewide SNAP hotline (1-866-974-7627) which is helping to increase the number of people enrolled in SNAP. This year, AARP and the AARP Foundation have teamed up with NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon to support the national Drive to End Hunger initiative. 

Find local opportunities to volunteer in the fight against hunger at Create the Good.

These are just some of the ways that AARP Connecticut is helping to enhance the quality of life for all as we age. AARP was founded on the premise that no one should have to live in a chicken coop.

Today, we continue to create opportunities and drive social change to address the wants and needs of the 50+ population to help them live their best life. How can we serve you?

We invite you to learn more about AARP Connecticut and tell us what you think. Visit our website  or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.