SUBJECT:
Title
Older Americans Month Proclamation, Sponsor Council Members Emily Baer and Brian O’Connor
Department
DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation
Presenter
PRESENTER(S): Luke Bolinger, Director of Parks & Recreation
Council Members Emily Baer and Brian O’Connor
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
On behalf of the Parks & Recreation Department, staff requests the Town Council proclaim May 2026 as Older American Month in the Town of Erie.
Body
BACKGROUND OF SUBJECT MATTER:
This May, the Town of Erie will recognize Older Americans Month and celebrate the lasting contributions older adults make to our community. Established in 1963 and led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Older Americans Month is observed each May to acknowledge the achievements of older Americans, recognize important trends related to aging, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting residents as they age with dignity, purpose, and connection.
The 2026 theme, Make Your Mark, celebrates the unique and lasting contributions older adults bring to our community each day. From sharing wisdom with grandchildren to leading volunteer efforts, mentoring others, advocating for change, and strengthening local organizations, older adults continue to shape the world around us in meaningful ways. This theme encourages communities to recognize these contributions and create opportunities for older adults to stay active, engaged, and connected.
Ways the Town of Erie supports the theme Make Your Mark include:
• Recognizing the lifelong contributions older adults make to the Erie community.
• Promoting opportunities for social connection, lifelong learning, and active living.
• Encouraging older adults to share their stories, experiences, and talents.
• Highlighting the positive impact older adults have on families, organizations, and the community as a whole.
• Creating spaces where older adults feel welcomed, respected, and celebrated.
To celebrate Older Americans Month, the Town of Erie Recreation Division will:
• Host the Older Americans Month Lunch - Make Your Mark celebration for residents age 60+, featuring a community meal, social connection, and recognition of older adults.
• Display a photo exhibit at the Erie Community Center throughout the month of May honoring Erie older adults and the meaningful ways they have made their mark on the community.
• Share stories and photos at the lunch highlighting older adults who contribute through volunteering, recreation programs, mentorship, and community involvement.
• Invite Town Council Members to attend the Older Americans Month Lunch on May 14, noon-1 p.m. to help recognize and celebrate Erie’s older adult community. (Please RSVP to chickman@erieco.gov <mailto:chickman@erieco.gov> by May 12).
Through this proclamation, the Town of Erie proudly recognizes Older Americans Month and honors the individuals whose experiences, service, and leadership continue to make a lasting mark on our community.
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attachments
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Proclamation