Livable Communities

Millions of Americans lose billions of dollars to scams and fraud each day. Every day criminals become more sophisticated in how they separate you from your hard earned savings, using fear, greed, and urgency to push the “right” buttons in people to get them to open their wallets. Unfortunately, Kansas is among those whose citizens’ lives have been turned upside down because of fraud. AARP Kansas is providing information about how to safeguard against identity theft and other forms of fraud and scams through the AARP Fraud Watch Network. The Fraud Watch Network has a number of tools and activities to help protect you and your family from con artists. The information is free to everyone, members, non-members and people of all ages.

AARP research consistently finds that the vast majority of people age 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

Are you ready for your home heating bill to go up-- again?

Join AARP and the Better Business Bureau, Inc. for a cyber security workshop and learn how to protect yourself online both at home and at work. The event will be on October 12, 2106 at the Hughes Metropolitan Complex, 50515 East 29th Street N., Wichita, 67220.

There was a packed house at the Botanica Gardens in Wichita in August as area residents gathered to hear about volunteer opportunities that are available through AARP Kansas. While many of those who attended know AARP for its discounts and insurance product endorsements, many didn't realize that AARP recruits volunteers to do a variety of work in communities across the state such as advocacy, community outreach, helping prepare tax returns, and teaching safer driving, as well as serving on the AARP Executive Council and Diversity Council.

Photo by Stephen Smith

With more than 43.5 million family caregivers in the United States, support for this silent army continues to grow. From books to support groups, training classes and apps – the challenge has become connecting caregivers to available resources. That’s why AARP has its I Heart Caregivers initiative.

Celebrity Chef Rock Harper will be in Wichita on Saturday, August 13, 2016 to share his cooking skills with a group of African American men and women who want to learn more about preparing healthy meals.

Congratulations to Andrea "Ande" Bozarth, AARP Kansas Associate State Director for Community Outreach, who is the first recipient of the Sherrie Gordon Award for Excellence in Multicultural Leadership. Ande was nominated for the national award by AARP Kansas Director Maren Turner for her work with the American Indian/Native American Community in Kansas.

Topeka area-residents who want to learn more about starting a business, especially those who are 50 and older, are invited to attend a free workshop in Topeka on July 29th at the Topeka and Shawnee County Library. Encore entrepreneurs over the age of 50 are one of the fastest growing groups of business owners. If you are an individual who is looking to start a new adventure, entrepreneurship can offer an opportunity for you to use your knowledge, passion, life and professional experience toward creating a small business.