Celebrating Older Americans Month!
When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing. A meeting in April 1963 between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens led to designating May as “Senior Citizens Month,” the prelude to “Older Americans Month.”
Historically, Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country. Every President since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other such activities.
Here at Habitat, we celebrate contributions of past and current older persons in our lives, and we partner with seniors 65+ in our Aging in Place Program to make repairs and safety updates to their homes.
To highlight this wonderful age and population, please share your Senior Story recognizing someone who has influenced you! When we reach 65 stories, Georgia Natural Gas will donate $6500 to our Aging In Place Program!