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The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is an organization whose sole purpose, according to its mission statement, is “to empower people to choose how they live as they age.” AARP Georgia Advocacy Manager Melissa Sinden joins Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio co-hosts Carol Morgan and Todd Schnick on this week’s Around Atlanta segment to discuss the group’s various efforts throughout the state.
“A lot of people think AARP and they think of insurance and discounts, and while we do that, [we] also do a whole lot more,” Sinden said. “What we do is advocate on behalf of the 50+ [community]…and their best interests.”
AARP has operating offices in every state as well as DC, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Offerings include financial security, fraud watch and prevention, caregiving, driver safety, free tax prep and more!
As Advocacy Manager, Sinden heads several initiatives on behalf of Georgians, one being bringing broadband to rural areas.
“It’s the idea that a lot of people don’t have access to high-speed internet, or what’s commonly referred to as broadband,” Sinden said. “The efforts this session, as well as in previous sessions, have been to expand that access.”
One important piece of legislation passed in this current session, according to Sinden, allows Electric Membership Cooperations (EMCs) to become broadband providers. What that means, is now they can get into those rural areas where they are already providing services!
“You may have heard at the federal level that Congress has allocated some funds for states to expand broadband, this now makes those [EMCs] eligible for that money,” Sinden said. “So, it’s kind of a win-win and we’re hoping that it amounts to a lot more people having the access.”
This new development, as it pertains to the 50+ community, means maintaining family connections, combating social isolationism and access to Telehealth (virtual medical care via telephone or video when traveling is not a convenient option, if at all).
Additionally, AARP offers its members several benefits, with a focus on the following specific programs:
- Fraud Prevention
- Caregiving
- Advocacy
- Volunteer Opportunities
Listen to the above interview to learn more about the efforts the AARP Georgia team is working toward or visit www.AARP.org.
A special thank you to Jackson EMC for sponsoring Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio. Jackson EMC offers homebuyers peace of mind and lower bills with its certified Right Choice™ new home program. These homes are built to be energy efficient and sustainable with improved indoor air quality, convenience and comfort. For more information on Right Choice new homes and Jackson EMC, visit https://RightChoice.JacksonEMC.com.
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