Age-Friendly York Kick-Off

In January, Age-Friendly York became the 88th Maine community to join the AARP-Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. 

Led by Michelle Surdoval, Executive Director of York Community Service Association, the team set to work, building on strong collaborations with other programs and services in the York area to support the well-being of all. To facilitate and encourage collaboration and partnership, they held a Kick- Off party that was attended by over forty invited guests, including the town manager, a member of the select board, local business leaders and representatives of local  non-profits, community services and religious organizations, as well as medical professionals.

The meeting opened with a welcome from York Town Manager, Peter Joseph, who shared his vision for making York more age-inclusive. Then, participants divided into five groups to share what is already age-friendly in York and which organizations are already leading. Then each group discussed gaps and who could address those gaps. The items that rose to the top included more meetings like the one hosted by Age-Friendly York, to share what the organizations are doing and how they may collaborate.  

Nola Cady, a local realtor, was a guest at the party and was quite impressed. She said, 

“I was lucky enough to be invited to this amazing gathering that celebrated York joining the Age Friendly Network. What an eye-opener! It’s wonderful to have all these tools and services available, but so few people who need them are aware that they exist. I, personally, had no idea there are so many wonderful offerings. My folder with hand-outs holds so many resources. I’ve since gone to some of the websites to explore. Unbelievable!!!!”

The future is looking busy for Age-Friendly York.