I believe one of the most vital functions I serve on council is being an advocate for the well-being of older adults. My dedication to an age-friendly Cary took root when I was young, beginning with my degree in sociology/gerontology from Nazareth University, and further specialized through advanced certification in end of life Issues. This foundation has given me a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing seniors, from maintaining health and independence to ensuring dignity at every stage of life.
Leading the Charge for an Age-Friendly Cary
My focus on our older population has translated into tangible progress right here in Cary and I am working as an advocate for older adults across the state:
- Local Leadership: I am proud to serve as the council liaison to the Senior Advisory Board, ensuring your voices and priorities are directly heard in our decision-making. To me, this is one of the most important things I do as a council member, and our Senior Board gives incredibly impactful feedback.
- Strengthening Staff Resources: I spearheaded the crucial decision to approve the hiring of a new role in our Town Manager’s office for a Program Manager for Seniors and Aging. This dedicated position is vital to coordinate services, drive innovation, and ensure aging is a central consideration in all Town planning.
Investing in Our Future: Modern Senior Center Facilities
I believe one of the most urgent investments the Town of Cary must make is in our senior center facilities and programming. The reality is that Cary is no longer just a young, growing suburb; demographic data shows that our median age is just shy of 40 years, making us one of the oldest municipalities in Wake County. Our residents love Cary and choose to retire here. We must honor this commitment by providing the modern spaces and programming they deserve to remain active, social, and healthy.
The need is clear: the current Cary Senior Center in Bond Park is aging and no longer sufficient for our growing senior population, and I regularly hear requests for more classes and programming. The most popular activities are pretty challenging to register for and they are typically at capacity.
Beyond a single facility upgrade, we must also plan for the future. As Cary continues to grow outward, I will push for staff to take on a feasibility study to identify a location for an additional senior center or satellite facility. This additional location is essential to ensure that all residents, especially those in our rapidly developing western and southern areas, have convenient access to the resources they need. Investing in senior facilities is not just about buildings; it’s about investing in the quality of life for the dedicated residents who have helped make Cary the thriving community it is today.
Statewide Advocacy: Creating an Age-Friendly North Carolina 💡
My work to support seniors extends far beyond Cary’s town limits. At the state level, I am passionate about creating an age-friendly North Carolina.
- From 2023 to 2024, I chaired the All Ages, All Stages workgroup that developed the Housing plan recommendations for the North Carolina Multi-Sector Plan for Aging. (You can read my workgroup’s Housing section starting on page 20).
- I currently co-chair the All Ages, All Stages housing implementation workgroup working to implement those recommendations statewide.
- I am a member of the NC Coalition on Aging.
This deep involvement at the state level ensures that I bring the practical perspective of our affordable housing challenges at the local level to the statewide work, and the best practices and critical resources back to Cary. This is part of my goal of helping us lead the way in supporting our older adults to be a model for other municipalities in the state.
Services Available to Cary Seniors
The Town of Cary, through the Cary Senior Center and various partnerships, is dedicated to providing programs and support that help our older adults live active, healthy, and independent lives. Our offerings are constantly evolving but currently include:
- Recreational and Wellness Programs: A wide range of educational classes, fitness, and wellness programs designed for seniors. Popular activities include yoga, Zumba, gardening, and various social games and gatherings.
- Technology Education: The Cary Senior Technology Club (CSTE) offers classes and a help desk to provide free assistance with phones, tablets, computers, and other devices, ensuring you stay connected in a digital world.
- Social Opportunities: Numerous chartered clubs meet at the Senior Center, focusing on everything from photography to golf, providing essential fellowship and community involvement.
- “Seniors on the Go” Trips: A program that offers organized day trips and excursions to local attractions and beyond, including cultural events, the zoo, and more.
- Referral and Support: The Senior Center often serves as a key access point to resources provided by other government and nonprofit organizations, including the crucial services offered by Resources for Seniors, Inc.
To explore the full range of resources and services available to you, I encourage you to visit the Town of Cary’s dedicated web pages:
- Aging Resources & Community Referrals: https://www.carync.gov/services-publications/aging-resources
- Senior Services and Programs: https://www.carync.gov/services-publications/senior-services-resources
My commitment to older adults is unwavering. I will continue to work every day to ensure Cary is a community that recognizes, respects, and invests in its most experienced residents.
I ask for your vote on Nov 4th, so I can continue to be your dedicated advocate on the Town Council! You can also vote early at Herb Young Community Center from October 25-Nov 1st.