To honor the milestone and draw support for its mission, the organization is spotlighting the top issues affecting the state’s growing population of older adults.

HAMILTON, NJ — October 198, 2023. NJ Advocates for Aging Well (NJAAW), the only statewide nonprofit focusing solely on issues impacting older adults in New Jersey, is proud to celebrate its 25th anniversary this fall. Through the end of 2023, the organization will reflect on past accomplishments and look toward what’s next for their policy advocacy efforts, adopting the slogan “Daring to Envision a Brighter Future for Older Adults in New Jersey.” 

“Influencing perceptions around the concept of aging is an important part of our work. As we recognize 25 productive years, we hope to inspire a clear vision of how a strong public policy framework can improve the lives of New Jersey’s older adults,” said Dr. Cathy Rowe, Executive Director. 

“It benefits us all to create a truly age-friendly society where everyone can live their best possible lives,” said Michele Kent, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “As we honor this important milestone, we at NJAAW pledge to redouble our efforts to advocate for policies and programs on behalf of NJ’s seniors.”

Since 1998, NJAAW leadership has confronted the most pressing issues facing the aging population. Highlights of the organization’s work over its 25 years include:

• The Elder Economic Security Index, a comprehensive resource used to advance economic supports for seniors
• Safe Mobility at Any Age, a program used to inform transportation safety for older drivers
• Educational resources for professionals in the field of aging including an annual conference, webinars, newsletters, and special events
• Expanding age-friendly work in NJ, dedicating its 2022 conference to “Building an Age-Friendly Ecosystem”

As it looks to the future, NJAAW is taking on a number of new initiatives, such as:

• Partnering with PHI national to convene dozens of stakeholders to form the Essential Jobs Essential Care NJ coalition, which builds strategies to recruit, train and retain direct care workers
• Advocating for a Multi-sector Plan on Aging within NJ

The 25-year milestone invites NJ residents to consider what it means to age well, both individually and collectively. Financial contributions are vital to ensuring NJAAW’s longevity, and in turn, the well-being of seniors across the state. 

“Aging is universal, which is why we can proudly say we’re working on behalf of everyone,” Dr. Rowe added. “We rely on — and deeply appreciate — continued support from our community.”

“Your support not only enables us to meet our goals for another 25 years but, more importantly, it contributes to the well-being of our precious and often under-appreciated resource, our older adults,” said Kent. 

To support NJAAW’s work for all older adults in New Jersey, visit www.njaaw.org/donate.