April Volunteer of the Month: Kacey French

Kacey French is a semi-retired architect based in York, Pennsylvania, specializing in universal design and aging-in-place solutions. She is strongly committed to creating sustainable and accessible home environments and serves as the president of CorrellGreen, LLC.

Kacey's involvement with AARP was sparked when Lancaster, Pennsylvania, joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities on December 19, 2018. Invited as a guest participant at Lancaster County’s celebration, she was inspired by the region’s commitment to age-friendly initiatives.

This experience fueled her determination to bring similar improvements to York County. In early 2019, she began attending the York County Volunteer Team's bi-monthly meetings, seeking like-minded individuals who shared her vision for a more supportive community for older adults. She quickly found a dedicated group of volunteers and has remained an active participant ever since.

Kacey is deeply passionate about elder care and community engagement. She co-founded and currently serves as president of the York County Village Association, a grassroots initiative dedicated to helping adults aged 50 and above maintain their independence through neighborly support, social connections, and organized activities. Under her leadership, the association has grown into a vital resource for aging residents in York County.

Thanks in part to the efforts of Kacey and her fellow advocates, York County, Pennsylvania, received its designation as an Age-Friendly Community from AARP in August 2021, following the approval of its Age-Friendly Action and Evaluation Plan. This milestone marked a significant achievement in enhancing the livability of the county for residents of all ages.

Kacey French has also been instrumental in fostering collaboration between AARP’s Senior Planet program, the York County Village Association, and the York Literacy Institute. This partnership focuses on equipping older adults with the technological skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Through workshops, mentorship, and hands-on training sessions, participants are introduced to tools and resources that enhance their independence and connectivity. By merging the expertise of these organizations, the initiative empowers aging residents to navigate technology confidently, bridging the digital divide and promoting lifelong learning and community engagement. This effort exemplifies Kacey's dedication to creating inclusive opportunities that benefit the older population of York County.

For Kacey, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a volunteer is the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of individuals, each bringing unique perspectives and life experiences. The AARP York volunteer team is known for its strong sense of camaraderie, with members going above and beyond to support one another and their community. Among the team’s many successful initiatives, Kacey takes particular pride in the annual Valentine’s Day outreach program, where volunteers distribute roses and hand-decorated cards to those who are shut-in, spreading joy and connection to those who need it most.

Additionally, she plays an integral role in the county’s annual shredding event, which continues to expand its impact each year. In 2023, the event drew 410 cars, resulting in the shredding of 26,600 pounds of paper and the collection of 2,212 pounds of food for the York County Food Bank. Seeing the community rally together for such meaningful causes reinforces Kacey’s belief in the power of collective action.

Proud to be part of a network of dedicated volunteers, Kacey remains committed to advocating for older adults and driving positive change in York County. Whether through architecture, community organizing, or volunteer service, she continues to be a mover and shaker in the fight for a more inclusive and supportive society for all.