Building great communities takes time – but small, tangible improvements can spark lasting change. That’s the idea behind the AARP Community Challenge, a grant program launched in 2017 to support quick-action projects that enhance livability nationwide.
As the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) leads Identity Theft Awareness Week this January, AARP is reminding U.S. Virgin Islands residents that identity theft remains a growing threat across the nation — and that our island communities are not immune.
An AARP-sponsored report from Javelin Strategy & Research shows that American adults lost $47 billion to identity fraud and scams in 2024. Given USVI’s frequent use of mail services, its high reliance on digital banking, and recurring reports of phishing and impersonation scams targeting local consumers, heightened awareness is essential.
“Social Security numbers in particular are like gold to criminals hoping to perpetrate identity fraud, which often leaves victims to ‘face a daunting and frustrating process to reclaim their identity,’” said Bill Sweeney, AARP Senior Vice President for Government Affairs.
Residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands can take practical steps to reduce risk and protect their personal information.
At AARP Virgin Islands, we are committed to uplifting the cultural traditions that strengthen our community and connect generations. This past weekend, the 27th Annual Bordeaux Farmers Agricultural & Cultural Vegan Food Fair on St. Thomas once again showcased the resilience, creativity, and agricultural brilliance of our Virgin Islands community. As proud supporters of the event, we were especially honored to sponsor its beloved highlight — the Coal Pot Lighting Competition.
This year, the celebration was even more meaningful for our AARP family: Mr. Rabsatt — an AARP VI volunteer and proud resident of St. John — won the Coal Pot Lighting Competition, demonstrating exceptional skill, cultural pride, and mastery of this cherished tradition.
Join AARP on St. Croix and St. Thomas for a FREE screening of "Wuthering Heights." This film features Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in Emerald Fennell’s bold and erotically charged adaptation of the classic story of obsessive love and social constraints.
After two years of hard work, the amendments to the Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Prevention Act (Bill 36-0099) passed unanimously today before the 36th Legislature. AARP VI testified in support of the amendments to the territory’s Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Prevention Act (Bill 36-0099). This Bill was sponsored by Senator-at-Large Angel L. Bolques, Jr.
"Elder abuse is not an abstract problem - it is a harsh reality in our islands. Too often, it is hidden in silence, whether in the form of financial exploitation, physical harm, neglect, or psychological manipulation. Each case represents not just a crime, but a betrayal of trust and a violation of the fundamental right to live with dignity and safety," stated AARP State Director Troy De Chabert-Schuster.
Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps like Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App have made sending money between family and friends easier than ever. But consumers beware: while these apps make exchanging money fast and convenient, they also make it quick and seamless for criminals to steal your money through a variety of tactics.
Identity fraud and scams are a massive and growing problem, but there are things each of us can do to protect against identity fraud, even if our data has been exposed.
This year marks a powerful milestone: 90 years of Social Security. Since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed it into law on August 14, 1935, Social Security has been a cornerstone of economic security - ensuring Washingtonians can retire with dignity, supporting people with disabilities, and providing vital income after the loss of a loved one.