Older Americans Month

WHEREAS, Alabama has more than 930,000 citizens ages 60 and older; and

WHEREAS, the Alabama Department of Senior Services and the Area Agencies on Aging are committed to helping all individuals maintain their health and independence in later life; and

WHEREAS, the older adults in Alabama are active community members involved in volunteering, mentorship, arts and culture and civic engagement; and

WHEREAS, recognizing the successes of community elders encourages their ongoing participation and further accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, our communities can provide opportunities to allow older citizens to continue to flourish by emphasizing the importance of elders and their leadership; publicly recognizing their continued achievements; presenting opportunities for older Americans to share their wisdom, experience and skills; and recognizing older adults as a valuable asset in strengthening American communities:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2013, as

Older Americans Month

in the state of Alabama.