City Seeks Volunteers to Develop Aging and Disability Action Plan

September 16, 2024 -- The City is seeking volunteers to help shape a plan that addresses the needs of Santa Monica's older adults, people with disabilities and their caregivers.

Community members have until October 7 to apply for the new Aging and Disability Action Plan Advisory Committee, which will guide the development of the plan.

The committee will review "existing community data, informing a community needs assessment, and selecting the action plan’s strategic priorities," City officials said.

"Those who represent older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, industry professionals, and individuals from a diversity of backgrounds are encouraged to apply," officials said.

Community members interested in applying can attend the following outreach events:

• September 25, 12 p.m. -- Virtual Community Event - Live Online. Register here
  
  
• September 30, 7 p.m. -- Virginia Avenue Park Advisory Board: Thelma Terry Bldg. located at Virginia Avenue Park, 2200 Virginia Avenue

“With almost 20 percent of our community over 65 years of age, the (plan) will guide our city in ensuring that community members of all ages and abilities can thrive,” said Mayor Phil Brock.

Santa Monica joins the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, securing a national designation as an age-friendly community.

As a member of the Network, the City "commits to identifying the challenges of its aging population and identifying policy and programmatic solutions that will improve the quality of life for all ages in the city."

The AARP network provides the city access to national and global research, community networks, planning models and best practices.

“By achieving this national designation, the city of Santa Monica’s leadership has committed to improving community livability for people of all ages," said Nancy McPherson, AARP California state director.

"We look forward to working with city leadership to make Santa Monica an even better place to live, work, play and age in place.”