SC New York News

Chemung County Department of Aging and Long Term Care will celebrate Older Americans Month on Tuesday, May 9th, 2023, at New Beginnings United Methodist Church in Elmira, NY. The event will honor the Distinguished Volunteers of the Year Awards, as announced by the department. According to the department, "The Distinguished Volunteer of the Year Awards will be presented to six county residents who are 60 years of age or older for ongoing devotion of time and talent to make a great impact on others without pay or compensation."

In addition to the awards ceremony, the department is collaborating with Cornell Cooperative Extension to recognize and celebrate all Chemung Volunteer Action Corp (CVAC) members for their volunteer contributions. This joint effort aims to highlight the valuable work done by older adults in the community.

Older Americans Month holds historical significance, having been established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy. Over the years, the month-long celebration has evolved, with President Jimmy Carter officially changing the name from Senior Citizens Month to Older Americans Month in 1980. The 2023 theme for Older Americans Month is “Aging Unbound,” emphasizing active and healthy living for older adults.

Christopher Moss, Chemung County Executive, highlighted the importance of community engagement and support for older adults, stating, "Age-Friendly Chemung is a community that encourages active and healthy living! By engaging and supporting our community members, we recognize that older adults in Chemung County and across our state and nation play a key role in the vitality of our neighborhoods, networks, and lives."

For those seeking more information about the event or Older Americans Month activities, Beth Stranges at the Department of Aging can be contacted at 737-5520.