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Health and Human Services Agency, on behalf of the El Dorado County Commission on Aging, recommending the Board adopt and authorize the Chair to sign a Proclamation recognizing May 2021 as “Older Americans Month” in El Dorado County.
FUNDING: N/A
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DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND:
Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads our nation’s celebration of Older Americans Month. When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday, about one third of older Americans lived in poverty, and there were very few programs to meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns grew, and at a meeting in April 1963 between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens, May was designated as “Senior Citizens Month,” the prelude to “Older Americans Month.”
This year’s theme is “Communities of Strength: May 2021,” recognizing the important role older adults play in fostering the connection and engagement that builds strong, resilient communities.
Typically, the Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) celebrates Older Americans Month each year by hosting a special luncheon at all Senior Nutrition lunch sites; this year, due to COVID-19, the luncheons have been postponed. Additionally, in prior years, HHSA has recognized older adults living in El Dorado County who perform exemplary work through volunteerism by presenting the annual “Senior of the Year” award; the award presentation has also been postponed in consideration of COVID-19 constraints. If it becomes possible to have the award this year, it will be submitted to the Board at a later date.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could decline to adopt the Proclamation.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION:
1) 05/19/20, 20-0334, HHSA Older Americans Month Proclamation
2) 05/21/19, 19-0518, HHSA Older Americans Month Proclamation
3) 05/22/18, 18-0188, HHSA Older Americans Month Proclamation
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOL...
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