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AARP has hit the airwaves in the Virgin Islands, launching its Divided We Fail (DWF) radio program titled "Stand Up For Yourself." The name comes from the song that Aretha Franklin penned as part of her contribution to the DWF national campaign. Aretha sings about breaking away from feeling complacent about our circumstances. She sings about not taking things ‘sitting down’ and urges people to stand up for yourself.

As the theme song for the national campaign, AARP Virgin Islands felt there was no better anthem to engage volunteers and the public. It was chosen to help demonstrate how the DWF movement impacts the lives of Virgin Islanders.

During the weekly, 30-minute program, policy makers and government agency heads discuss the issues of the day with the show’s host, AARP National Board Member, Dr. Cora Christian. Each show directly ties the healthcare and economic security issues of the national campaign to the daily lives of Virgin Islanders.

“In the VI, we don’t vote for President and our Delegate has no vote on the issues presented in Congress,” states Denyce Singleton, AARP State Director. “This presents a real challenge for us to relate to the DWF campaign. However, when we provide information about the campaign along side a discussion on local benefits and services, Virgin Islanders are quick to see the connection. They can appreciate that though we don’t have a vote, we do have a voice and can demand change from our local elected officials.”

The show began in mid-March and will continue through 2008. The schedule of guests includes representatives from the Legislature, Government House, various government agencies and several private heath related providers. The guests represent a mix of officials and key opinion leaders from all three of the Virgin Islands. 

“Our new gubernatorial administration has resulted in new government department heads,” continued Singleton. “Changes at the top bring significant changes throughout each organization. Those changes must be communicated to the public so that they can benefit from accurate and timely descriptions of programs, benefits, schedules, fees, and more. The 'Stand Up For Yourself' radio program is a useful way to communicate this information.”

Through the radio show, AARP is breaking out of its traditional communication zone. “DWF issues impact the whole society, not just the 50+ population,” says Singleton. “Through this show, we are able to provide information to a wide listening audience. These people span the entire age spectrum, and they definitely need the information on programs and services.”

The radio program also enables our residents to understand more about AARP, and is allowing it to be a familiar household word. “If there is any down side to our show” says Singleton, “It’s when people realize they will have to wait until their 50th birthday to take full advantage of the benefits AARP membership provides.”

"Stand Up For Yourself" airs every Tuesday on Radio One, 1000 AM, at 4:30 p.m.