Wednesday, February 7, 2001

AARP has plenty going on for seniors

The Fayette County AARP has had a few ups and downs over the past years, but is going strong and having fun now.

The local chapter meets on the third Wednesday of each month at the Heritage Bank Community Room in Fayetteville. Members socialize, strategize and tackle both fun and fulfilling projects. With approximately 68 local members, they have the numbers to make things happen!

This year, President Doris Jones plans to "get as much information as possible to seniors and plan programs interesting to them."

The active members travel together, hold socials, participate in local charity events and donate funds to local groups. Some of the charities they have supported include the Salvation Army, the Alzheimer's Association, the United Way, the Southwest Hospice and the Friday Home.

Last year they collected used eyeglasses for the Lions Club. Glasses are sent overseas. Many of the members assisted with the First Annual Memory Walk held in Peachtree City.

Alice Mallory, who serves as the AARP Public Relations Chair, served on the Memory Walk committee. Other AARP members are active in other aspects of the senior community.

Frances Reeves and Joan Neal are two AARP members who are well known to those involved in senior issues on a local and state level. Both have served on the Board of Fayette Senior Services in various capacities and are currently helping with the project to build a new Senior Center.

According to Eridine Kelley, Membership Chair, "We try to get out into the community and meet the needs of seniors and older citizens."

A current project they are working on is the need of transportation for seniors who cannot drive. Kelley noted, "There are many who sit at home and are unable to drive. We are checking into what can be done to help."

Activism in regards to senior issues is another focus of the both the local chapter and the national organization. Joan Neal, and others, work locally with legislators regarding various legislative initiatives that affect seniors.

AARP also sponsors tax assistance for seniors and lower income groups and promotes the well-known "55 Alive" driving courses.

The group's meetings are both informative and fun. They begin at 9:30 a.m. with a time for coffee and socialization. An educational presentation is usually on the agenda.

Safety issues, insurance, medical and fraud awareness are just a few of the topics that have been topics for discussion. Speakers from local law enforcement, charitable organizations and travel agencies have given talks.

The group's next meeting will be on Feb. 21 and, perfect for those who are hesitant about walking into the unknown, it will be a low-key social hour in honor of Valentine's Day. Although the group opted to have a social this month, the meeting is not a couple's oriented session. There will be light refreshments and entertainment at the informal meeting.

The cost for membership in the national AARP is only $10 a year. To become a member of the local AARP Chapter, annual dues of $5 - yes, just five dollars - are required. A portion of the annual fees are donated to local charities.

For more information regarding AARP Chapter 2936, contact Eridene Kelley at 770-460-9417 or Doris Jones at 770-471-4964.

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