On Nov. 21, the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging (OSA) will celebrate its 35th anniversary. A reception will be held at its new offices at 300 East Michigan Ave. in Lansing.

OSA's mission is to promote independence and enhance the dignity of Michigan's older persons and their families. This year it has a budget of $94,435,900 to provide a wide range of programs and services.

During its 35-year history, OSA has served under four Michigan Governors. The four have been invited to attend the 35th anniversary reception, as well as the 11 former OSA directors who began with C. Patrick Babcock in 1973. They are appointed by the Governor with the consent of the Michigan Legislature.

"OSA has a proud history of accomplishment that spans 35 years," says OSA's Director Sharon Gire. "OSA has successfully met its important mission and commitment to Michigan's 1.8 million citizens age 60 and older."

OSA receives federal funding from the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) under the Older Americans Act (OAA) and state funding from the Michigan Legislature. It provides programs and services through Michigan's 16 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and hundreds of local service providers to meet the needs, concerns and preferences of older adults in every part of the state.

As the focal point of Michigan's statewide aging network, OSA provides leadership, innovation, advocacy, and supportive services on behalf of Michigan's older adults, their families and caregivers.

In 1973, Public Act 106 created OSA and its Commission on Services to the Aging (CSA), a citizen's body appointed by the Governor with the consent of the Michigan Legislature. 1973 also was the year when the Older Americans Act mandated the establishment of AAAs to coordinate federal and state programs and services with local efforts.

In 1981, Public Act 180, also known as the Older Michiganians Act, established in state statute the duties and responsibilities of OSA, CSA and AAAs.