Judge Executive Proclaims May Older Americans Month

NEWS

Judge Executive Proclaims May Older Americans Month

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – In a virtual ceremony, Ohio County Judge Executive David L. Johnston issued a proclamation in recognition of Older Americans Month. May is Older Americans Month and encourages all Americans to build strength in the lives of older adults. “Communities of Strength” is the 2021 theme, which highlights the differences everyone can make in the lives of older adults in their communities nationwide. The annual event is to create awareness of how important it is to support our older family members, friends, and neighbors especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The event was also intended to raise awareness of programs and services available supporting older Kentuckians.

⏬Download Older Americans Month Proclamation (PDF)
AARP Kentucky State President Charlotte Whittaker of Hartford joined Judge Johnston for the live streaming celebration on Facebook and YouTube.

“In tough times, communities find strength in people—and people find strength in their communities. In the past year, we’ve seen this time and again in Ohio County as friends, neighbors, and businesses have found new ways to support each other. In communities across Kentucky, older adults are a key source of this strength. Through their experiences, successes, and difficulties, they have built resilience that helps them to face new challenges. When communities tap into this, they become stronger too,” said AARP Kentucky volunteer State President Charlotte Whittaker.

Judge Johnston added, “I’m proud to join AARP Kentucky and everyone watching today for a celebration of Older Americans Month. And the 2021 theme, Communities of Strength, could not be more appropriate or timely after the challenges we’ve all faced during the coronavirus pandemic. When people of different ages, backgrounds, abilities, and talents share experiences—through action, story, or service—we help build strong communities. And that’s something to celebrate!”

Local Bluegrass artist, McKenzie Bell of Butler County, joined the celebration to perform a live, acoustic duet of Blue Moon of Kentucky with Judge Johnston. President John F. Kennedy in 1961 designated the month of May as Older Americans Month administered by Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, Communities of Strength, recognizing the important role older adults play in fostering the connection and engagement that build strong, resilient communities.

Virtual Older Americans Month Celebration and Proclamation in Ohio County