The Town of Leland is joining the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities as part of ongoing efforts to better serve residents of all ages.
AARP defines age-friendly communities as being inclusive and considerate of the perspectives of all residents of all ages and all persuasions. Age-friendly communities also encourage and benefit from diverse citizen engagement by including residents in a process to identify the community’s needs and develop and implement an action plan to address those needs.
“The common thread among these communities is the belief that the places where we live are more livable and better able to support people of all ages when local leaders commit to improving the quality of life for the very young, the very old, and everyone in between,” AARP North Carolina’s Coastal Region representative Rosalie Calarco said. “Well-designed, age-friendly communities foster economic growth and make for happier, healthier residents of all ages.”
Through its participation in the network, Leland will continue working to provide safe and walkable streets, age-friendly housing and transportation options, access to needed services, and opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in community life, among other things.
AARP membership provides communities in this network with resources for identifying and assessing community needs, access to technical assistance and expert-led webinars, and support and best practice materials. Town staff chose to pursue joining this network as the initiative supports the Leland 2045 Plan strategy to provide equal access to community facilities, housing, and infrastructure.
“Leland 2045 supports livable, diverse, and connected neighborhoods that advance the quality of life for residents in all stages of life. The better we connect people, places, and ideas, the greater the opportunities become for our Town. By promoting a sense of belonging, inclusivity, and equity, Leland has the opportunity to meet the needs of our aging population and support the growth of our younger generations,” Community Development Planner Barnes Sutton said.
By joining the Network, AARP will catalyze the education of local leaders, both elected officials and engaged residents, and encourage them to implement the types of changes that make communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults.
“The Town of Leland is an amazing place to live, work, and play. We are excited that more families are choosing to call Leland home. With that growth comes the opportunity to continue improving our services and amenities like our parks, the walkability of our streets, and making sure that everyone has transportation options, even if they don’t drive,” Mayor Brenda Bozeman said. “It’s crucial that we are welcoming to everyone and that residents of all ages can access our amenities.”
More than 100 million residents in the United States live in more than 660 communities that are part of the Age-Friendly Communities Network, including 12 other cities, towns, and counties in North Carolina.
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