Spring Greetings From AARP Maine State Director Noel Bonam

Spring greetings from State Director Noël Bonam on behalf of the entire AARP Maine team!

As spring starts to emerge throughout the state, I for one am happy to be enjoying warmer temperatures, longer days, and sunny skies. It is my hope that you and your families are doing the same, safely and in good health!

Along with the brighter days, I am delighted to mention next month brings us Volunteer Appreciation Week starting on April 17th! While AARP Maine is dedicated to celebrating our volunteers all year long, the week of April 17th, is a special time to reflect for the tremendous work of our volunteers throughout Maine. Our mission and ability to positively impact the lives of so many Maine residents and their families would not be possible without your tireless contributions and support. Please take a moment to watch the special video [link coming soon!] our office has put together to thank YOU, and show how much we appreciate everything you do!

Speaking of volunteers, earlier this month Ms. Jessica Linzer (Simpson) was unanimously reconfirmed to the Maine Retirement Savings Board by the Maine Senate. Having spent her career working for the Social Security Administration, Jessica offers the Board her unique experience and abilities to serve in this role on behalf of older Mainers. You can read more here. Congrats, Jessica! You can also read more here about our volunteer advocates who testify, host local discussions with legislators and much more during the legislative session.

This session we are hard at work on a number of important issues that impact Mainers 50+ and their families. Paid Family Medical Leave, fair utilities and access to affordable broadband are just some of the issues we are addressing in 2023. Please note that there are some important ways to get involved:

• Take the survey: The Maine Connectivity Authority is collecting information from Mainers, communities, businesses and organizations as part of their Broadband Action Plan. The goal is to identify areas of need regarding high-speed internet access. Your voice is important to this effort so please take a moment to complete this important survey today.
  

You may be aware that AARP Maine often collaborates with other organizations in our state with you in mind. Check out these resources and connect directly with the opportunities that work best for you!

Finally, we are pleased to offer a number of free weekly and monthly events that you are cordially invited to attend. Please feel free to bring a guest or two as well:

• Monthly coffee socials in select communities
• Monthly scam awareness virtual events with Fraud Watch volunteers
  
  • Are you looking for a scam prevention speaker for your group? Our fraud fighters can help.
• Weekly yoga and meditation classes

This is a busy time of year for our office, and we are excited to be working with you all on so many impactful bills and meaningful initiatives that will make a real difference in the lives of all Mainers! As always, if there is anything you need or if you have question for me or my staff, please let me know.

Very best wishes,
Noël Bonam, AARP Maine State Director