Advisory Councils
The Older Americans Act, mandates each AAA to establish an Advisory Council.
“The Advisory Council is charged with furthering the agency’s mission of developing and coordinating community-based systems of services for all older persons in the planning and service area.” However, as the name suggests, the Council advises – it does not govern. Advisory Councils provide the roots that help the AAA grow in its mission.
The composition of the Council should include:
-
More than 50% older persons (aged 60 and over) including minority individuals who are participants or who are eligible to participate in programs offered under the Act:
-
Representatives of older persons;
-
Representatives of health care provider organizations not funded through the Area Plan Grant;
-
Representatives of supportive service provider organizations not funded through the Area Plan Grant;
-
Persons with leadership experience in the private and voluntary sectors; and
-
The general public.
If you are interested in more information on serving as a volunteer on the Advisory Council in your county, contact your county office.
By becoming an Advisory Council member, one agrees to carry out the following roles and responsibilities:
-
Goodwill Ambassador to the Community: enhancing the AAA’s visibility, by expanding the circle of friends;
-
Advocate: championing and representing the interests of the AAA and their clients;
-
Specialist: helping to ensure adequate resources to carry out the AAA’s mission; and
-
Strategic Advisory: providing strategic support and expertise to further the AAA’s goals.