AARP Wisconsin

As one of the greatest leaders in American history, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. lived a life of service, tirelessly giving his time and talent to make the world better. Since it was first declared a federal holiday in 1983, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day has honored the life and legacy of Dr. King and inspired people to give back through public service.

Attention local non-profit organizations and governments across Wisconsin! The window is now open for you to apply for a 2025 AARP Community Challenge grant. These grants fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and more.

Winter can be a challenging season for many communities, especially those that experience significant snowfall. However, with thoughtful planning and creative placemaking, winter can also be a time of vibrant community engagement and activity. 8 80 Cities Winter Placemaking Guide, created with support from AARP, offers valuable insights and strategies to help cities and towns keep residents engaged and connected during the colder months. Here are some best practices for winter cities to consider when planning winter activities.

As we begin 2025, we at AARP Wisconsin are focused on passing legislation at the local, state, and national level that will enable all Wisconsinites to age with dignity and purpose. Whether that means providing more support for family caregivers, helping Wisconsinites save for retirement, or strengthening Medicare and Medicaid, we will be in the halls of our state and nation’s capitols to advocate for proposals that help all of us live the life we want as we transition from the workplace to retirement.

AARP Wisconsin is working with leaders in cities across the state to address affordable housing challenges — including joining other advocates to host a Housing Week event in Madison, working with city leaders to study housing options in Appleton, and leading walking tours in Milwaukee. In 2024, La Crosse also passed an ordinance to allow the construction of accessory dwelling units.

Learn tips and tricks for spotting and avoiding 12 common scams around the holidays.

We often refer to unpaid family caregivers as Wisconsin’s unsung heroes, flying under the radar while providing vital care that allows their loved ones to continue living in their homes and communities as long as possible.

During the 2025 legislative session, AARP Wisconsin will push lawmakers to pass a state tax credit of up to $500 to help offset expenses—such as adult day care, assistive technology or home modifications—that family caregivers incur.

By Amber Miller, Sr. Assoc. State Director of Outreach, AARP