Celebrate Veterans and Caregivers with AARP New York: Events, Resources, and Community Support

This fall, join AARP New York in recognizing National Family Caregivers Month and National Veterans & Military Families Month with free events across October and November. Whether you’re a family caregiver, veteran, or someone supporting these communities, these events are designed to connect you with essential resources, promote well-being, and provide meaningful experiences.

Being a caregiver—especially for a veteran—can be one of the most important and challenging roles you'll ever take on. AARP is here to support you with educational workshops, financial planning tools, health resources, and fun events. Explore the list below to find events tailored to your needs, whether you prefer in-person gatherings or virtual programs.

Event Highlights

1. Caregiver Support Resource Fair

• Thursday, October 24 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ET
• Connect with local caregiving resources at the Northport VA Medical Center. This event is free and open to anyone seeking support or information about caring for loved ones.

Location: Northport VA Medical Center, 79 Middleville Road, Northport, NY 11768

No parking passes required.

Contact: Lauren C. Petta, LCSW | (Cell) 631-487-9339 | (Office) 631-261-4400 ext. 6034

2. Family Caregivers Retreat and Resource Fair

• Tuesday, October 29 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. ET
• Take a day to recharge at the Huntington Hospital’s Family Caregivers Retreat. This in-person event offers resources, education, and support for caregivers to manage stress and better care for their loved ones.

Location: Huntington Hospital, 270 Park Ave, Huntington, NY 11743

Contact: Kacey Farber, LMSW | Office: 631-351-2229 | Cell: 631-796-5636
Email: kfarber@northwell.edu

3. Caregivers Roundtable: Continuing the Conversation

• Friday, November 1 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ET
• Join policymakers, educators, and caregivers at this roundtable discussion on family caregiving. Together, we’ll reflect on past initiatives and explore new ways to support caregivers in the future. Enjoy a free buffet breakfast while connecting with others in the community.

Location: Hofstra University, Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center, 900 Fulton Avenue, Hempstead, NY 11550

Register Here

4. Virtual Family Film Screening – Gold Coast International Film Festival

• Sunday, November 3
• Watch a curated selection of films with your loved ones from the comfort of home. This free, virtual film screening celebrates family connections through art and storytelling.

Register Here

5. Family Caregivers Retreat Day – Hotel Indigo East End

• Thursday, November 7 | 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. ET
• This free in-person retreat, hosted by PBMC Northwell Health, offers caregivers a day of relaxation, education, and support. Enjoy a series of workshops focused on caregiver self-care and community connections.

Location: Hotel Indigo East End, 1830 West Main Street, Riverhead, NY 11901

Contact: Megan Stettinger | (631) 548-6259 | pbmccaregiverscenter@northwell.edu

6. Hope For The Warriors 5K Run/Walk

• Saturday, November 9 | 10:00 a.m. ET (Rain or Shine)
• Join AARP Long Island at Belmont Lake State Park for a 5K run/walk honoring veterans, service members, and military families. The event begins with opening ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. ET.

Location: Belmont Lake State Park, 625 Belmont Ave, West Babylon, NY 11704. Register Here

7. Mental Health First Aid Class – Family & Children's Association

• Wednesday, November 6 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET
• Thursday, November 14 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET
• ½ Hour Lunch Break each day.  Please bring your own lunch.
  
• These free classes offer certification in mental health first aid with a focus on older adults. Learn how to identify signs of mental health challenges and support individuals in need.

Location: Family & Children’s Association, 377 Oak Street, 5th Floor, Garden City, NY 11530

Contact: Jeanne Cacciatore | jcacciatore@fcali.org | Call/Text: (516) 619-6786

For more information about FCA services, please visit www.fcali.org

8. Shed-and-Shred Event

• Saturday, November 16 | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ET
• Dispose of expired medications and shred personal documents at this free event aimed at preventing identity theft and ensuring safe medication disposal.

Location: Clinton G. Martin Park, 650 Marcus Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY 11040. Register Here

9. Practices for Improved Sleep Workshop

• Wednesday, November 20 | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET
• This virtual workshop provides practical tools to help caregivers reduce stress and improve sleep, essential for maintaining energy and well-being.

Register Here

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