Dr. Carrie Rowe, Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education | Pennsylvania Department Of Education
Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, accompanied by Department of Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich, announced a new initiative today aimed at fostering age-friendly communities throughout the Commonwealth. The event, held in McKeesport, marks the beginning of a series of efforts to promote environments where older Pennsylvanians receive necessary support and services.
The initiative encourages cities, towns, and neighborhoods to adopt practices that aid older adults in thriving at every life stage. "Older adults in Allegheny County and here in my hometown of McKeesport are the backbone of our communities. They are our family, friends, and neighbors who have made great contributions in our lives that benefit all of us," said Lt. Gov. Davis, emphasizing the significant role played by seniors in the community. He added, "The organizers of age-friendly communities here in southwest Pennsylvania are making a positive impact, and I applaud their work and dedication as we welcome new faces to the table to expand these initiatives."
Alongside Lt. Gov. Davis and Secretary Kavulich, several other leaders participated in the event, including Congresswoman Summer Lee, Senator Nick Pisciottano, and Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission Executive Director Rich Fitzgerald. Representatives from organizations dedicated to age-friendly practices, like AARP's Mary Esther Van Shura, also attended, highlighting collaborative efforts to support aging populations.
The series of events aims to engage local stakeholders across the region in developing strategies for creating more inclusive communities for older adults. The initiative underscores the importance of partnerships between governmental, educational, and community organizations to achieve these goals.
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