The Reframing Aging Initiative is generating a groundswell for change – from local efforts to national leaders – to tell a more complete story of aging. This story explains that good ideas know no age limit, and that experience and wisdom can be tapped to benefit us all. And more than we realize, our words matter. Changing how we communicate will change attitudes about aging, and ultimately will advance policies and programs that support us at every age and stage of life.

Aleina Hodnett is a teacher in Milwaukee Public Schools, where AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors national service programs provide tutoring and mentoring. 

“The students are always so excited to see the tutors walk through the door,” said Hodnett. 

National service through AARP Foundation Experience Corps gives retired engineer Linda Fong the opportunity to improve educational access for others, while empowering her to focus on self-care. 

John King loves to drive. But now, he’s driving with a purpose – serving veterans. John King, 79 years old, is a veteran himself who continues to serve. He provides transportation for other military veterans, makes sure they get to medical appointments, assists them in buying groceries, takes them on a trip down memory lane or simply gives them the opportunity to spend time with someone who understands them. 

"This is what we owe them, because life today is what it is because of what these guys did," King says.

Each year, more than 170,000 older Americans make time to serve in their communities through one of several AmeriCorps Seniors programs. 

AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparents dust off their books and turn on their tablets to help young students succeed

For more than two centuries, America has called on us to unite through service

This month we mark America’s birthday. As Americans celebrate the Fourth of July, it is a good time to consider what’s at our core as a country, and how can we strengthen the spirt of service we hold dear.

This vision of service for the greater good is core to who we are as a nation. When we serve, with honor and in unity, we bring out the best of America—and find solutions to many of today’s biggest challenges.

Yesterday was Veterans Day, an annual opportunity to express our gratitude to the courageous men and women in uniform who have given so much to our nation. Our veterans know the meaning of service, sacrifice, and camaraderie, and their experiences enrich the lives of their communities long after they leave the armed forces. Many veterans choose to continue to give back: often to their communities, but sometimes to each other, as well.

For decades, our agency has engaged people of all ages and backgrounds in getting things done - improving lives, strengthening communities, and expanding opportunity. Today, service is needed more than ever. To meet current and future challenges, it is essential that more individuals know how they can serve their communities and country. But all too often, the public doesn’t know what national service is, the benefits, or how to get involved. That’s why we are taking steps to increase awareness and ensure more people know about opportunities to serve.