In 2009, Mayor Michael A. Nutter commissioned former Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Nora Dowd-Eisenhower to complete a study on the state of older Philadelphians. This study served as the basis for the MCOA’s strategic planning process, which launched in April 2010. The planning process identified priorities and broad goals to serve as the blueprint for future City policy and initiatives on behalf of elder Philadelphians. The Strategic Plan will build on existing City services and initiatives. The MCOA submitted the Strategic Plan September 8th and was approved by Mayor Nutter October 3rd. The Strategic Plan is currently in the implementation phase.
“Older Philadelphians, like many elderly Americans, are worried about stability. Our seniors are vital to the culture and development of our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Nutter. “This Administration believes the City of Philadelphia has a duty to support, serve and connect with our seniors. The Mayor’s Commission on Aging’s Strategic Plan is a great start to making Philadelphia a more age-friendly city.”
City Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown said, “Clearly, much time and effort was put into this plan by the MCOA Board and Staff. When fully implemented, the Mayor’s Commission on Aging will have done a great service for our senior community.”
“Envisioning an age-friendly Philadelphia will continue to move our City forward to a strong future, keeping all residents engaged and safe. The work of the Mayor’s Commission on Aging is valuable to create a dynamic place where the knowledge across all sectors and ages is part of the civic dialogue,” said Lydia Hernandez Velez, Deputy Managing Director, Mayor’s Commission on Aging. “I am excited and focused on the work that has been set out by the Strategic Plan.”
The mission of the Mayor’s Commission on Aging is to improve the quality of life for older adults in Philadelphia. Opportunities and services for Philadelphia residents 55 and older, the Commission on Aging offers services free to residents and employers.
Center in the Park, located in historic Vernon Park in Germantown, is a community center that promotes positive aging and fosters community connections for older adults (55+) whose voices are critical instruments in shaping its activities and direction. Founded in 1968, CIP is accredited by the National Institute of Senior Centers, a unit of the National Council on Aging, as a provider of excellent programs, activities and services for its active membership of more than 6,000 and its 1,000 homebound clients. www.centerinthepark.org