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May 2, 2002
For more than 30 years, the President of the United States has
designated May as the official month during which we acknowledge the
extraordinary contributions of millions of older Americans. Older
Americans Month also presents us in Hawaii and all across the U.S. with
an opportunity to mark one of the single most important achievements of
the past century -- the longevity of our population -- and the
challenges and opportunities that accompany that growing demographic in
the coming years.
According to Tommy G. Thompson, Secretary, Department of Health and
Human Services, this year’s theme, "America: A Community for All
Ages," was selected in recognition of the national community in which
we live, and in tribute to the elders of our families who represent the
strength of our nation. Older Americans provide us with love and
guidance, and they set the standards by which our families and our
children’s families live their lives as responsible citizens of
our great nation. In essence, older Americas are the heartbeat of our
communities, and they give us the energy and motivation to move forward
and contribute to our nation’s strength, success and
prosperity.
2002 is an exciting year for our aging community. We are celebrating
the 30th anniversary of the Older Americans Act Nutrition
Program, one of the most successful community-based programs for
seniors in America. We are also heralding the convening of the
2nd World Assembly on Aging, held in April 2002 in Madrid,
Spain. At this important gathering of over 100 nations of the world,
America’s position as a compassionate nation, which values its
elders, was affirmed.
In May, each year in Hawaii, Governor Cayetano honors one
outstanding senior male and one outstanding senior female selected from
each of the four counties to recognize their dedication and commitment
to volunteering in their respective communities. The winners are
recognized at the Older Americans Ceremony in the Governor’s
chambers. Family members and guests of the representatives are invited
to attend the Older Americans luncheon at Washington Place, hosted by
the Governor and the First Lady. It is a great time for the State of
Hawaii to say, "Mahalo," to all of Hawaii’s older Americans and
the important role they play in our community.
For more information regarding Older Americans Month contact Marilyn
Seely at the State Executive Office on Aging at 586-0100.
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