On November 25, 2025, Acting Governor Tregenza A. Roach, Esq., signed the unanimously approved Caregiver Leave Act (Bill 36-0086) into law. This legislation represents a significant advancement, ensuring that all full-time employees of the Government of the Virgin Islands, including those working with independent boards, commissions, and agencies, receive four hours of administrative leave each month. This leave is intended to help them manage essential caregiving responsibilities for a seriously ill spouse, child, parent, or any legal dependent.
For some family caregivers, the holidays can be a joyful time filled with lighter spirits. It feels good to care for loved ones and enjoy being together while celebrating family traditions. However, for many, the holidays also bring added stress. Caregivers are already busy, and the demands of the holiday season increase that workload. Something has to give!
It’s perfectly okay to give yourself a break this year. Here are some tips to help you navigate the holiday season with more joy and less stress.
The Virgin Islands are brimming with delightful holiday traditions and unique foods that bring us together in celebration. From November onwards, the festive spirit is captured beautifully with the arrival of coquito at our tables and gatherings! While its history in the Virgin Islands isn't extensively documented, coquito is thought to have roots in Puerto Rico. The name itself, meaning "little coconut" in Spanish, highlights the creamy coconut at its heart. This delightful drink is a variation of the traditional Spanish ponche and has wonderfully evolved to incorporate flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Each region of Puerto Rico adds its own twist, showcasing the island's rich cultural tapestry. Here in the Virgin Islands, coquito has truly become a beloved holiday favorite, delighting many at local bars and restaurants. Cheers to celebrating together with this delicious tradition!
Dive into the full article for our delightful Coquito recipe, expertly crafted by our wonderful volunteer, Lucie Rodriguez. Enjoy the festive spirit!
On November 10, 2025, Governor Albert Bryan, Jr. signed Act 9051, which amends title 34 of the Virgin Islands Code, chapter 15, expanding the Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Protection Act. Act 9051 was approved by the Virgin Islands Legislature on October 30, 2025. AARP Virgin Islands State Director Troy de Chabert-Schuster testified before the 36th Virgin Islands Legislature in support of amendments to the territory’s Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Prevention Act (Bill 36-0099).
Are you a passionate, strategic thinker with outstanding leadership qualities and the ability to motivate and inspire others? If so, we want you! AARP Virgin Islands is conducting a territory-wide search for the position of State President. This is a high-level volunteer position that offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to utilize your considerable skills and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of Virgin Islanders age 50+.
Kentucky’s 2026 legislative session begins Tuesday, Jan. 6, in Frankfort, and AARP Kentucky and its volunteers will be actively engaged throughout to champion the interests of older residents.
AARP Iowa will partner with Senior Planet from AARP in December for online training to help older adults use technology. The following webinars will be Tuesdays at noon:
When Sandra C. Dillard became the first Black woman journalist at The Denver Post in 1972, she sometimes faced racism — like the time a doctor refused to be interviewed by her. But she didn’t let such incidents dampen her ambition.
Two AARP Community Challenge grants helped develop a new plaza with a monarch butterfly statue to let community members relax, socialize and hear each other’s stories.
There are around 60 AARP Texas volunteers who use their voices and lived experiences to drive change at the local, state and federal levels. And AARP is looking for more Texans to join them.
In August, 1.2 million New Yorkers were more than 60 days behind in their utility payments, owing $1.8 billion. AARP NY supports two bills that call for stronger and more accessible consumer representation.
During the 2026 legislative session, which begins in January, AARP Maine and its volunteers will be working in person at the State House as well as virtually on issues important to residents 50 and older.
AARP in the Virgin Islands is backing legislation by territory Sen. Novelle E. Francis Jr. (D) that would give full-time government employees up to four hours of paid caregiving leave each month.