service

When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing. In April 1963, President John F. Kennedy and the National Council of Senior Citizens designated May as “Senior Citizens Month,” the prelude to “Older Americans Month.”

Vernon Baker and Kathy Kammer presented the second annual Williamsburg Landing Outstanding Service to Seniors Award to William S. Massey, CEO of Peninsula Agency on Aging. Bill was actively involved in the startup of the Center for Excellence in Aging, established a branch of PAA in Williamsburg, served as an advisor to the local Senior Services Coalition, and has served hundreds of seniors and their families in the community.

When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns grew. In April 1963, President John F. Kennedy and the National Council of Senior Citizens designated May as “Senior Citizens Month,” the prelude to “Older Americans Month.”