AARP Eye Center

This summer marks the 90th anniversary of Social Security—one of the most important and effective programs in American history. Since 1935, it has been a lifeline for millions of Americans, providing critical financial support and peace of mind after a lifetime of hard work.
Today, over 67 million Americans receive Social Security benefits. For 24 million of them, it’s their main source of income. Every month, the program lifts more than 16 million people out of poverty. That’s not just numbers—it’s real people, including 129,564 people right here in Wyoming.
To celebrate the 90-year milestone, AARP offices across the country are holding events, and here in Wyoming, we’re marking the occasion with special Social Security themed community picnics in Cheyenne and Sheridan. It’s our way of honoring the generations who built and relied on this program—and of renewing our commitment to protect it for the future.
While the program is worthy of celebration, it is not without challenges—especially in customer service. Average phone wait times jumped from 61 minutes in September 2024 to 99 minutes this spring. Also, according to the 2025 Social Security Trustees Report, the program is projected to become insolvent in 2033 if no changes are made to the program’s funding or benefits structure. AARP is aware of these challenges and working to make sure this critical benefit is available now and for future generations.
Here’s to 90 years of Social Security—and to keeping it strong for generations to come.
Stella Montano AARP Wyoming State President