AARP Foundation to Expand Voice Tech in Colorado

AARP Foundation is proud to announce that it has been selected as one of the recipients of a grant from NextFifty Initiative, a Colorado-based private foundation dedicated to funding innovative, mission-driven initiatives that improve the lives of older adults and their caregivers.

NextFifty Initiative awards grants through a competitive application and review process. These funds will support AARP Foundation’s Connect2Affect Connected Communities™ program. Connected Communities is a comprehensive solution for providers of affordable senior housing and their residents, designed to increase social connectedness and resident engagement through voice-activated technology. NextFifty Initiative funding will help make the program available to 1,000 older adults living in Colorado-based affordable housing.

“NextFifty Initiative’s funding will increase our capacity to make a positive, lasting difference in the lives of Colorado’s vulnerable older adults,” said Emily Allen, senior vice president of AARP Foundation programs. “With this generous support, senior housing residents will be able to access community information using just their voice — and, in turn, stay connected to their community, remain independent, and age in place longer.”

“We know that communities which recognize and encourage the contributions of older adults are stronger and more vibrant,” said Diana McFail, acting CEO and Chief Operating Officer of NextFifty Initiative. “AARP Foundation was selected as one of this cycle’s grant recipients because we believe this project is a sustainable approach to address the needs of older adults today and into the future. We offer our congratulations and look forward to a strong partnership that expands society’s understanding of the needs of people in their second 50 years.”

About AARP Foundation
AARP Foundation works to end senior poverty by helping vulnerable older adults build economic opportunity and social connectedness. As AARP’s charitable affiliate, we serve AARP members and nonmembers alike. Bolstered by vigorous legal advocacy, we spark bold, innovative solutions that foster resilience, strengthen communities and restore hope. To learn more about AARP Foundation visit aarpfoundation.org.

About NextFifty Initiative
NextFifty Initiative is a Colorado-based, private foundation. The organization exists to create brighter, longer and healthier futures that unlock the potential of communities through an advanced grant making approach. Through this work, communities are positioned to fully benefit from the wisdom and diverse experiences of a thriving aging population. Our approach applies a multitude of lenses in funding high-yield aging solutions that benefit people age 50 and older. NextFifty Initiative focuses on grant making designed to support concepts, projects and innovations that will benefit generations for years to come.