AARP WV Joins National Celebration of Social Security's 90th Anniversary

For 90 years, Social Security has been a promise kept to generations of hardworking Americans.

This summer, AARP is joining with communities across the country to celebrate that legacy, while rallying public support to protect its future.

AARP West Virginia will host a series of events in the Mountain State's Capital City on Thursday, August 14th; the 90th Anniversary of President Franklin D. Roosevelt signing the landmark Social Security Act into law. These events include:

Ice Cream Social – Get the Scoop on Social Security!
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Capitol Market, 800 Smith Street, Charleston
AARP WV will hand out 90 free scoops of Ellen’s Ice Cream during lunchtime at Capitol Market’s Center Court. First come, first served (while supplies last).

Kanawha County Commission Meeting
4:00 p.m.
Kanawha County Courthouse, 407 Virginia St., Charleston
The Kanawha County Commission will issue a proclamation recognizing the 90th Anniversary of Social Security.

Charleston Dirty Birds Baseball Game
5:30 p.m. Gates Open; 6:30 p.m. First Pitch
GoMart Ballpark, 601 Morris Street, Charleston
AARP WV celebrates 90 Years of Social Security with our interactive Plinko game (win fabulous prizes!), fun Social Security-themed activities and trivia!

These events are part of a nationwide effort to engage AARP members, elected officials, and local communities in a conversation about the role Social Security has played—and must continue to play—in helping secure the financial futures of Americans of all ages.

“For nine decades, Social Security has delivered earned payments that help millions of West Virginians stay financially secure,” said Gaylene Miller, AARP WV State Director. “We’re proud to honor that legacy while also calling attention to the importance of strengthening and protecting Social Security for the generations to come.”

A Legacy of Security

Since 1935, Social Security has helped older Americans live and retire with dignity, supported people with disabilities, and provided vital income to families after the loss of a loved one. It’s a promise earned through a lifetime of hard work—and it has stood the test of time, weathering economic downturns, political shifts, and demographic change. In its 90 years of existence, a payment has never been missed.

Today, more than 67 million Americans receive Social Security. For many, it’s the bedrock of their retirement. And as we approach this milestone anniversary, one thing is clear: we must continue to protect and strengthen Social Security.

Social Security in West Virginia:

• More than 476,000 residents in West Virginia rely on Social Security
• 74% of recipients in West Virginia are age 65 or older
• Social Security contributes approximately $9.5 billion annually to the state economy

“Social Security isn’t just a retirement plan—it’s a promise to every American who pays into it,” said AARP WV State Director Gaylene Miller. “We’ll celebrate its success and stand together in protecting it.”

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AARP WV Media Contact: Tom Hunter, tphunter@aarp.org, 304-340-4605