April 18, 2005

State policy makers will go on the road to convene five public policy forums designed to form a long-term agenda for aging in Michigan.

“We want to use these forums to listen and learn from people most affected by decision making at the state level,” said Sharon L. Gire, Director of the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging. “Seniors, caregivers, professionals, and advocates will join together at the forums and provide input which will guide state-level aging policies over the coming years.”

The purpose of these forums are to examine issues of baby boomer needs, provide education on why issues are important, discuss barriers that stand in the way of change, and reach agreement on recommendations that will form a long-term public policy agenda.

Recommendations having national significance will be forwarded in a report to the White House Conference on Aging to be included in the national meeting in October 2005.

Forum Dates and Locations:

The following forums are at capacity and no longer accepting registrations:

April 21 - Economics Forum, Eberhard Center Grand Valley State University, 301 West Fulton Street, Grand Rapids

April 26 - Community Forum, City of Troy Community Center 3179 Livernois, Troy

April 27 - Health Forum, Greater Grace Temple 23500 West Seven Mile Road, Detroit

Space still available:

May 4 - Community Forum, Transitions Professional Development Center Saginaw Intermediate School District, 3860 Fashion Square Boulevard, Saginaw

May 10 - Caregiving Forum, Little Bear East Conference Center 275 Marquette Street, St. Ignace Registration is required.

To register, please contact the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging at (517) 373-8230 or visit www.miseniors.net. Background materials are available for viewing at www.miseniors.net. Written comments will be accepted until May 10 through the web site’s feedback tool or by sending to OSA, P.O. Box 30676, Lansing, MI 48909-8176.