Ed Humphrey, President of the Board of Clermont County Commissioners, presented Ms. Cindy Gramke, the Executive Director of Clermont Senior Services, with a Proclamation declaring May as ‘Older Americans Month’ in Clermont County, Ohio.
On April 29, the Board of Clermont County Commissioners showed their commitment to honoring the value of seniors by proclaiming the month of May to be “Older Americans Month” in Clermont County, Ohio.

Every year since 1963, May has been the month to appreciate and celebrate the vitality and aspirations of older adults and their contributions and achievements in local society. It is a proud tradition that displays the nation’s promise to exalting the value which seniors add to local communities.

“The older adults in Clermont County play an important role in our community by contributing their experiences, knowledge, wisdom and accomplishments,” Ed Humphrey, President of the Board of Clermont County Commissioners, said. “Clermont County seniors are active members of society involved in local volunteering, civic engagement, mentorship and arts and culture.”

Humphrey announced there are more than 30,000 citizens, age 60 and older, living in Clermont County.

“Our community can provide opportunities to allow older citizens to continue to flourish by: emphasizing the importance of elders and their leadership; presenting opportunities for older Americans to share their wisdom, experience and skills; and providing services to help older adults live at home,” Humphrey said.

Ms. Cindy Gramke, Executive Director of Clermont Senior Services, was present to accept the Proclamation from the Commissioners.

“It is so important that we not only understand the needs of the older adults in our county, but also their contributions to our communities.” Gramke said. “Seniors are the one population that consistently grows and Clermont County will continue to be the fastest growing county in the state of Ohio for ages 60 and over.”

Gramke explained the continued population increase creates many challenges for the future, but also the potential for many opportunities. In addition, she stated the levy is absolutely critical for Clermont Senior Services to continue providing the level of services they currently offer.

While Clermont Senior Services provides services, support, and resources to older adults year-round, Older Americans Month is a great opportunity to show a special appreciation! Linda Eppler, Director of Communications for Clermont Senior Services, encourages citizens to take advantage of the chance to show appreciation and support for local seniors as they continue to enrich and strengthen Clermont County communities.

“Their shared histories, diverse experiences and wealth of knowledge have made our culture, economy and local character what they are today,” Eppler said.

This year’s Older Americans Month theme —”Unleash the Power of Age!”— emphasizes the significant role of older adults. This month, communities across the nation will recognize older Americans as productive, active, and influential members of society.

Clermont Senior Services is hosting two events that promote positive lifestyles for seniors. A free art exhibit and reception will be held at the Union Township Lifelong Learning Center from 2 – 4 p.m. Sunday, May 19.

Award-winning professional artist Mary Helen Wallace and her students will exhibit some of their profound work. Also on display, will be wood carvings created by the East Fork Wood Carvers. Many of their wood carvings have won local, state and national awards.

A special program concerning the financial exploitation of seniors is scheduled to be held at the Union Township Lifelong Learning Center from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 21. David Kessler of Columbus, Ohio, will be the featured speaker on this topic. Kessler is a retired police officer and now an expert in this field. He provides training and keynote speeches across the country about this topic. Kessler addresses all facets of exploitation, including undue influence, sweetheart swindles, power of attorney thefts and home improvement scams.

This program is free, however seating is limited. Please call (513) 536-4021 to RSVP. Both events will be held in the Union Township Civic Center (left entrance), located at 4350 Aicholtz Road in Eastgate.

“We know that healthy, active seniors are the happiest and we are blessed by the lives of the senior citizens in our communities,” Eppler said.

By celebrating Older Americans Month, citizens acknowledge the value and impact of older adults in local communities. To learn more about the activities and events planned for Older Americans Month in Clermont County, call (513) 724-1255 or visit www.clermontseniors.com.