Local Resources

Kansans who receive Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, public housing or other kinds of government benefits may be eligible for the state’s Lifeline program, which makes it more affordable to have a landline telephone. Savings can be as much as $17.02 a month.

AARP Kansas announced a winner for the AARP Community Challenge, which aims to create change and improve quality of life at the community level. The winning project is The Wichita Public Library’s launch of three historical walking tours accessible through the PocketSights app. The project was partially funded through the AARP Community Challenge grant and is set to be completed by November 1, 2017.

AARP Kansas has opened a new office in Wichita, where members can learn more about AARP and take classes on topics such as financial security and preventing fraud.

Investment fraud schemes cost Americans tens of billions of dollars a year. AARP has identified eight risk factors that predict who is most likely to be defrauded.

Outsmarting investment fraud and learning how to be a part of the AARP Fraud Watch Network and all it has to offer are just two of the topics that will be discussed at the 18th Annual Western Summit in Hays on Thursday, October 6, 2016. Other topics include activities for seniors at the Hays Recreation Center, athletics at Fort Hays State University (FHSU), fraudulent practices in acquiring antiques, a presentation on relationships with China by Dr. Ed Hammond, education professor at FHSU, and information about Hays airport services.

AARP Foundation is looking to expand its team of volunteers for the upcoming tax season by recruiting interested individuals. Tax-Aide is an AARP Foundation program that offers free tax filing help for those who need it most, especially adults 50 and older, during the tax season.

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.

Ever wish you could communicate better with e-mail or Skype? Have you wondered about online safety and cloud computing? AARP and the Microsoft Store are teaming up to provide FREE classes that will help you bridge the digital divide. Classes will be held at the Microsoft Store in Oak Park Mall.

Disasters strike without warning. Whether it’s hurricanes, tornadoes, fires or floods - being prepared is the key to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe in a crisis.