Come Celebrate and Make Your Voice Heard

We at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging congratulate Julian Lauren, who will be honored with the Senior Citizen of the Year Award, on June 2 during Older Michiganian’s Day at the State Capitol in Lansing.

For his dedication, he will be presented with a $1,000 check from Consumer’s Energy during the ceremony.

Mr. Lauren exemplifies volunteerism, one who helps enhance the quality of life in his community. He was selected for his service to seniors at the 8330 On the River Senior Housing Community in Detroit for helping preserve other residents’ dignity and independence. An ordained minister, one Sunday each month, he ministers to the sick and shut in. The professional gospel singer also volunteers as director of the Senior Ensemble Choir, and as a notary, he volunteers his help with seniors for legal matters.

He waits tables, serves food and washes the dishes for the Senior Congregate Meal Program, and he writes letters and reads to people. On weekends, he even volunteers to help clean the building when custodial staff is unavailable. Mr. Lauren also is known for his kind, encouraging words and other acts of service.

You’re invited to join in the state’s celebration and come to meet Mr. Lauren. If you’ve ever felt your voice is not being heard, Older Michiganian’s Day is a prime opportunity to meet your state legislators face-to-face, advocate for platform issues and celebrate the accomplishments of seniors.

The day will kick off at 10:20 a.m. on the State Capitol grounds with an introduction by Mary Ablan, director of the Detroit Area Agencies on Aging of Michigan. Pam Curtis, president of the Area Agencies on Aging Association of Michigan will welcome guest and explain the purpose of the day.

After that, you’ll have the opportunity to meet members of the House of Representatives and the State Senate to advocate for platform issues that include improving access to affordable long-term support and services, preventing elder abuse, improving accessibility for seniors in the community and supporting caregivers. You can find a copy of the platform issues at www.oldermichiganiansday.com.

Unfortunately, lunch tickets, which were available through the DAAA and other Area on Aging locations, are sold out. However, you can choose to dine at many area restaurants. We’ll be glad to assist you with getting registered so you may attend.

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact us at (313) 446-4444.

Paul Bridgewater, President and CEO, Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA), hosts "The Senior Solution" on WCHB Newstalk 1200AM, Saturdays at 10 a.m. DAAA is located at 1333 Brewery Park Blvd., Suite 200, Detroit, MI 48207; 
 (313) 446-4444; www.DetroitSeniorSolution.com