AARP Florida

During the recent Volunteer Leader’s Training meeting, AARP Florida had the honor of presenting the inaugural Esther “Tess” Canja Award for exceptional volunteerism, a tribute to the remarkable legacy of one of our most beloved advocates. The award was presented posthumously to Tess Canja's daughter, Deb Canja, in recognition of her mother's unwavering dedication and tireless commitment to serving others.

Arlene Grosso is a beacon of inspiration for older adults who want to make a meaningful impact in their community. As a caregiver, she recognized a need and used her creativity and persistence to create a service that benefits her community.

In honor of April being National Volunteer Month, AARP Florida shines a spotlight on one of our most dedicated, Kathy Dalton Mayorga. Positioning herself as a major voice in Tallahassee for advocacy, fraud education and community outreach for the 50+ community, Kathy is a force to be reckoned with.

As the dust settles on the 2024 legislative session, AARP Florida proudly celebrates significant victories that will positively impact Floridians aged 50 and above.

The 2024 Legislative Voting Record includes detailed information on key legislation affecting older adults, votes taken during committee meetings, and final actions by the full House and Senate

Many AARP members are proving that retirement is not about slowing down but a rallying cry to stay active, engaged and connected through friendly battles of wit, agility, and exercise…all with a dash of humor.

AARP Florida continues to express concern over the quality of care provided to nursing home residents in Florida, especially in the aftermath of significant nurse staffing reductions mandated by the state legislature in recent years. Data recently released by federal agencies highlights a mixed record on the quality of care, particularly for short-term nursing home residents who require rehabilitation and care following hospital stays.

Today, AARP Florida released its 2024 legislative priorities, highlighting the importance of maintaining a well-trained direct care workforce, enhancing the quality and oversight of Florida’s long-term care system, expansion of home and community-based services and increasing consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteer advocates.

To honor their work in supporting caregivers across the state, AARP Florida has recognized Representatives Chip LaMarca and Will Robinson Jr. as 2023 Capitol Caregivers.

AARP Florida State President Ken Thomas has always found purpose in serving others. Hailing from Williamsburg, Virginia, an area renowned for its strong military presence, Ken's journey was deeply influenced by the active-duty service members and veterans surrounding the area from a young