The Tampa Bay Times and AARP Florida bring together a panel of experts to address Social Security’s history and future on its 90th anniversary

The Tampa Bay Times, in partnership with AARP Florida, will host a free community conversation on Social Security at the upcoming Spotlight Tampa Bay event, “Securing the Future: Social Security at 90.” The forum will take place at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14, at Feeding Tampa Bay, 3624 Causeway Blvd., Tampa.

From 5-6 p.m., attendees can engage with community resources from organizations like AARP Florida, the Tampa Bay Times, Feeding Tampa Bay’s S’Well (senior wellness) program, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs’ SHINE program, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, the League of Women Voters of Hillsborough and Pasco Counties, Meals on Wheels and United Way Suncoast.

At 6 p.m., local experts and community leaders will participate in a panel discussion on Social Security. As Social Security marks its 90^th anniversary, it remains a cornerstone of economic security for millions of Americans, providing vital support for retirees, individuals with disabilities and families who have lost a loved one. However, the program faces significant long-term funding challenges that could impact future generations. Join the Tampa Bay Times for a community conversation with top experts and leaders exploring Social Security’s history, current issues and future solutions.

“No initiative has done more to keep elderly Americans out of poverty than Social Security,” said Conan Gallaty, chairman and CEO of the Tampa Bay Times. “In its 90-year history, it has become one of the most popular federal benefits, also making it the third rail of politics. Our expert panelists will grab that rail and explain where they see the train heading and how we might change course.”

The conversation, moderated by Graham Brink, viewpoints editor at the Tampa Bay Times, will feature Tony Coelho, a retired U.S. congressman; Elisa Walker, government affairs director of Social Security at AARP; Les Rubin, founder and president of Main Street Economics; and Dr. Robert McClure, president and CEO at The James Madison Institute.
 
“As Social Security turns 90, we’re not just marking a historic milestone — we’re underscoring the critical need to protect it,” said Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida state director. “This program has been the

bedrock of economic stability for generations, including the more than 5 million Floridians who count on it today. In communities like Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco, nearly half of residents 65+ rely on Social Security for at least half their income. That makes this a deeply local issue. Partnering with the Tampa

Bay Times helps us elevate these voices and reinforce our commitment to protecting and strengthening Social Security — not just for today’s retirees, but for generations to come.”

Doors open at 5 p.m. The resource center will be held from 5-6 p.m. The panel discussion, which will include questions from the audience, will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Attendees should register at tampabay.com/spotlight. Admission and parking are free.