Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley Conference: Informing, Inspiring, and Driving Action
The Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley Conference, held on November 20, 2024, at ArtsQuest in Bethlehem, gathered 110 passionate attendees dedicated to fostering a livable community for all ages. Hosted by United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley, the event centered on the theme Inform, Inspire and Take Action, showcasing the collaborative efforts driving healthy aging initiatives across the region.
The conference featured dynamic presentations by distinguished speakers. Mike Watson, Director of Livable Communities at AARP, shared his expertise on building age-friendly communities and emphasized the importance of creating environments where people of all ages can thrive. Watson’s work with AARP’s nationwide initiatives has brought critical resources, tools and support to communities striving to enhance livability for older adults.
Joetta, a 4-time Olympian and renowned impact speaker, captivated the audience with her motivational message. Drawing from her book, Joetta’s “P” Principles for Success, she challenged attendees to “Show Up And Show Out” for themselves and their communities. Her energy and passion left a lasting impression, inspiring participants to embrace challenges and strive for greatness in their personal and professional lives.
The conference also welcomed Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich, who brought his extensive experience in human services to the discussion. Secretary Kavulich touched on the importance of supporting older adults in maintaining their independence, thriving with dignity and contributing to the vibrancy of their communities. He reinforced the critical role of local aging networks in driving meaningful change for Pennsylvania’s 3.4 million older adults.
In addition to the inspiring presentations, attendees engaged in a group activity designed to foster connection and collaboration. The activity underscored the importance of community partnerships in creating actionable solutions for the challenges faced by older adults.
The Age-Friendly Lehigh Valley Conference was a celebration of the progress being made and a call to further action. By coming together, attendees demonstrated their commitment to creating a region that values and supports its aging population. This event served as a reminder that building a healthy and livable community is a shared responsibility—and an achievable goal when we’re UNITED for the greater good.
