January 2026 Monthly Message

Becky Farrell

I’ll celebrate my 10th year anniversary with AARP this year. When I started, I could not have fully anticipated how deeply this mission would become part of my life. What began as a professional opportunity quickly grew into a calling—one grounded in listening to older Wyomingites, working alongside passionate volunteers, and advocating for policies that help people live with dignity, independence, and purpose.

Over the past decade, I’ve watched AARP Wyoming grow into a trusted voice and fierce advocate for older adults across the state. We have built relationships with lawmakers, community leaders, veterans’ organizations, caregivers, and local partners—always with one goal in mind: helping Wyoming residents age well.

As we enter a new year, that goal is clearer than ever.

Looking ahead, AARP Wyoming is sharpening its focus around a few core priorities that reflect both what we’ve learned over the past ten years and what Wyomingites are telling us they need most.

Caregiving continues to rise to the top. More families are stepping into caregiving roles, often with little preparation or support. In 2026, we will continue expanding our Caring for Caregivers programming, advocate for stronger home- and community-based services, and participate in a nationwide caregiver blitz to elevate caregiver voices and push for practical solutions.

Fraud prevention remains an urgent issue. Scammers are increasingly sophisticated, and older adults are often targeted. We will double down on education, advocacy, and outreach—one big goal this year is to advance legislation to regulate crypto ATMs and strengthen protections for Wyoming consumers.

Livable communities and housing are essential to aging well. Whether it’s safe streets, affordable housing, or accessible neighborhoods, we know that where you live shapes how you live. In the coming year, we’ll support age-friendly initiatives like the Laramie housing pop-up, work with local leaders on community safety and housing solutions, and elevate resident voices in planning conversations.

Veterans remain a priority audience for AARP Wyoming. Through our Veterans Advisory Council, we will continue working with partners to serve Wyoming’s more than 44,000 veterans—connecting them to resources, hosting events, and engaging them in efforts like Voyage of Valor 2.0.

And none of this happens without volunteers. Over the past decade, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful engaged volunteers can be. In 2026, we will continue to invest in leadership development, grow our Community Action Teams in Cheyenne and Sheridan, and create flexible roles that allow volunteers to use their talents to strengthen their communities.

Ten years in, I’m grateful—for the trust of Wyoming communities, the dedication of our volunteers, and the opportunity to serve alongside such committed staff and partners. I’m also energized. The challenges facing older adults are real, but so is the momentum we’ve built together.

As we step into 2026, AARP Wyoming remains committed to being a wise friend and fierce advocate—honoring the past decade of progress while pushing forward with clarity, purpose, and resolve.

The work continues. And I couldn’t be more optimistic about where we’re headed.