Concerned about the cost of health care and long-term care? Worried about having enough money in retirement? AARP Hawaii invites you to contact us about being a volunteer advocate.

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We’ve just announced a new grassroots volunteer recruitment initiative aimed at presenting AARP’s positions to members of Hawaii’s state Legislature and Congress. We’re looking for AARP members in each state Senate and Congressional District to serve as volunteer contacts with our elected representatives.

You don’t have to be a policy expert – we’re looking for people who care about health care, long-term care and retirement security and are interested in making life better for all Hawaii residents as they age. Orientation, legislative training, and issue training will be provided. Contact AARP Hawaii’s George Massengale at 808-545-6005 or gmassengale@aarp.org.

AARP legislative issues vary from year to year. Here’s what we’re working on now.

National Issues/Activities

Medicare/Social Security: We want to protect and strengthen Medicare and Social Security for future generations. That means making sure our members of Congress understand how important these programs are to real people. As a volunteer, your contacts with members of Congress will help ensure that Medicare and Social Security are protected.

Strengthening Social Security for Future Generations: Later this year we’ll be holding public conversations about Social Security. You can help us engage the community in a conversation about long-term solvency.

State Legislative Issues

Home and Community Based Services for People Aging at Home: AARP Hawaii fights for programs that can help people age at home by providing access to basic services like transportation, home delivered meals, chores, case management, and home companions.

Threats to Retiree Benefits: The cost of living in Hawaii is about 60 percent higher than on the mainland. Hawaii’s retirees need to be able to count on the benefits they’ve been promised. If shared sacrifice is required, it needs to be shared across all sectors of the community. AARP Hawaii will continue to work with our members to ensure that their retirement security is protected.