September Greetings from State Director, Lori Parham

Greetings from your friends at AARP Maine, 

This fall, we are heading into a critical election season at the same time as we continue to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic. Needless to say, it has been a busy year at AARP Maine with many important issues at stake, and I want to begin by thanking our wonderful advocates and volunteers for your dedication and tireless efforts.

An important reminder is that due to the pandemic, all of AARP Maine’s in-person events have been cancelled through the end of the year. However, know that we do remain “open for business” and hope you will feel free to reach out to us in the weeks and months ahead. Please continue to visit our website and special COVID-19 section, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram (@aarpme), and Twitter for important updates, the latest news, and resources. 

One way we can continue to “see” each other is through our planned virtual events. Visit this link to read about our upcoming events. AARP Maine staff is working to bring you virtual events on everything from Maine military history to yoga. We would love to hear your ideas for Maine-focused events, too! All ideas are welcome and you can send them to me@aarp.org anytime. 

In the meantime, AARP Maine’s advocacy work is in full-force. We are working hard to advocate on critical issues at stake through our non-partisan voter engagement campaign, Protect Voters 50+. We’re tracking key races and candidates’ positions on issues that matter to voters 50-plus such as protecting Social Security & Medicare, lowering prescription drug costs, and rebuilding the economy.  

One way to hear directly from candidates in all the federal races this election season is to participate in our tele-town hall forums. You’ll note that the first tele-town hall takes place with Dale Crafts will be on Tuesday, September 29th. The second tele-town hall will take place on Tuesday, October 6th with Congressman Jared Golden (D-2). Click here to register for one or both and note that the candidates will be answering questions from our members live during the call.

Along with debate sponsorships with Maine Public and News Center Maine, our tele-town halls represent just some of the ways AARP provides non-partisan information on where the federal candidates stand on issues that matter to you and your family.

We are also providing information on how Mainers can cast their votes safely whether by absentee ballot or in person. Visit our election page to learn more about how to vote safely in Maine and about the issues we are tracking this election season.

Lastly, AARP Maine continues to ask all Mainers to be counted in the 2020 Census by the closing deadline of September 30th, so that Maine gets its fair share of funding towards our communities for the next decade. For more information, visit our Census web feature.

As always, I welcome your feedback and ideas on how we can better serve you locally. I look forward to hearing from you!

Warm wishes for a healthy fall,

Lori Parham
AARP Maine State Director