AARP Vermont recently released findings from an April 2025 survey conducted by ANR Market Research of Burlington adults aged 45 and older. The results reveal a community deeply committed to staying put—81% want to remain in Burlington as they age—yet face mounting challenges that could push them out. High property taxes, rising utility bills, aging housing stock, and limited mobility options are making it harder for residents to maintain their independence and stay in the neighborhoods they call home.
A new AARP survey, released in conjunction with Social Security’s 90th anniversary, confirms that Americans highly value Social Security, and even more so than five years ago. The vast majority of Americans – 95% of Republicans, 98% of Democrats, and 93% of Independents – consider Social Security vital to the financial security of all Americans, and 67% believe it is even more important for retirees than it was five years ago.
AARP Vermont is bringing Frank Abagnale, a noted expert on fraud prevention, to Burlington to coach members and the public on how to avoid becoming a victim.
Elliott Greenblott, state coordinator of AARP's Fraud Watch Network, conducted a TV interview with one of Vermont's top fraud investigators last week. Bill Carrigan is deputy commissioner of the State's Division of Financial Regulation. He shares his perspectives on a range of securities frauds, real estate scams, Ponzi schemes and other crimes that put Vermonters at risk. The "Mr. Scammer" program is produced at Greater Northshire Access Television (GNAT-TV) in Southern VT and airs on cable access stations across the state. It is hosted by Elliott Greenblott. View it here: https://youtu.be/MV-UeBf-cm0
For more than 70 years, the annual Town Officer Education Conferences have provided an opportunity for municipal officials and citizen volunteers to receive updates on tax laws; learn about new technology, procedures and programs; and discuss other job-related matters. The conferences, sponsored by University of Vermont (UVM) Extension in collaboration with several partner organizations, will be held on April 4, 2019 at Lake Morey Inn, Fairlee, and on April 11, 2019 at the Holiday Inn, Rutland.
A recent AARP placemaking workshop in White River Jct. attracted some 80 town and city planners, community organizers, grassroots groups and local citizens to learn more about creating public spaces that are vibrant, welcoming, safe and accessible for everyone. These projects employ temporary changes with the goal of leading to permanent change that supports healthy active lifestyles for people of all ages and abilities. The workshop featured a number of presentations on actual projects that have been launched in VT towns as well as a some exciting hands-on workshop sessions. A highlight for attendees was the announcement by AARP Vermont that up to three mini-grants of $3,000 each will be made to eligible organizations, local towns and cities embarking on such initiatives.
AARP Vermont held a Placemaking workshop in White River Junction on March 13. In addition to several excellent presentations, and announcement was made about funding opportunities for local projects around the state. (See links to presentations below.)
The 7 th Annual “A Show of HANDS” features 100 decorated wooden hands adorning the walls at Penny Cluse Café during March. A silent auction of the hands will take place on Thursday, March 28 from 6:00-8:00pm (bidding ends at 7:45).