Published in RINewsToday on October 6, 2025
Over a year ago, Mayor Donald R. Grebien officially signed a resolution, marking the beginning of an important process. The signing ceremony, held on September 16, 2024, in the City Council Chambers, was attended by local leaders, community advocates, state officials, and members of the Pawtucket Senior Citizens Council.
The resolution to join the nation’s Age-Friendly network was approved by the City Council after being in development for more than six years. It highlights Pawtucket’s commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for residents of all ages, from the very young to the elderly.
The Age-Friendly network helps participating communities engage with older adults and their caregivers through surveys and assessments. Based on the feedback received, communities develop action plans to enhance livability for all ages by adopting features such as safe, walkable streets, better housing and transportation options, access to key services, and opportunities for civic and community participation.
The initiative is built around the World Health Organization’s (WHO) report, Global Age-Friendly communities: A Guide in 2017, offering municipalities an action plan, identifying eight “domains for living” to create more welcoming communities for older adults. These domains are implemented and assessed in three phases over five years, with continuous cycles of improvement thereafter. The domains are:
1. Outdoor spaces and buildings
2. Transportation
3. Housing
4. Social participation
5. Respect and social inclusion
6. Civic participation and employment
7. Communication and information
8. Community support and health services
AARP launched its U.S. Age-Friendly Network in 2012. By 2014, New York City became the first U.S. city to join the WHO Age-Friendly Cities network. By 2017, Rhode Island became the first U.S. state to officially adopt the Age-Friendly Communities framework. In 2025, AARP will commemorate the 1,000th U.S. municipality joining the Age-Friendly Network, marking a significant milestone in the movement to make communities more welcoming for older adults.”
Pawtucket’s effort involves a large-scale collaboration between the Mayor’s Office, the Leon Mathieu Senior Center, other city departments, Age-Friendly Rhode Island, the Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC), and various local organizations. Together, they will oversee data collection and the creation of an Age-Friendly blueprint for action.
Pawtucket Becomes Official
Last week, Mayor Grebien, along with members of the City’s Age-Friendly Task Force and AARP Rhode Island, formally announced Pawtucket’s efforts to join over 1,000 communities in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. Globally, over 1,500 cities and towns across more than 51 countries have joined the WHO Age‑Friendly network, illustrating the reach of this movement.
With the kickoff of the press conference, Pawtucket joined other Rhode Island cities—Newport, Cranston, Providence, Westerly, and Bristol—in this growing initiative.
Mary Lou Moran, Director of the Leon Mathieu Senior Center and Pawtucket Senior Services, served as master of ceremonies. She welcomed over 90 attendees and introduced the initiative, “Age-Friendly Pawtucket: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future,” along with a panel of speakers.
“This is an exciting day as the city commits to addressing aging across the lifespan and ensuring we provide appropriate services, support systems, and opportunities for families and caregivers,” said Moran.
A key component of the press conference was the launch of a community needs assessment and survey, designed to gather direct input from residents to help guide the development of the action plan. Moran encouraged attendees, especially older residents, to participate in the survey. “We need your input to help us build a community that promotes health and wellness for all ages,” she said.
Catherine Taylor, State Director of AARP Rhode Island, explained the core philosophy behind the Age-Friendly movement: “If you make a city great for an 8-year-old and an 80-year-old, you make it great for everyone. That’s the age-friendly lens Pawtucket is using.”
AARP Rhode Island President Elizabeth Howlett, former Lieutenant Governor of Rhode Island, emphasized the importance of volunteerism and the role of community members in the survey process.
James Connell, Executive Director of Age-Friendly Rhode Island, noted that the aging population in Pawtucket and across Rhode Island was a major driver for embracing this initiative. “Rhode Island is one of the few states where there are more people age 65 and older than under 20,” he said. “This is something to celebrate. It’s an opportunity to assess needs, meet challenges, and create goals and visions for healthy aging.”
Beth Roberge, President of the Pawtucket Senior Citizens Council, shared a personal perspective on aging while advocating for the initiative: “Life doesn’t end when you reach a certain age. It’s just another stepping stone.”
Jeanne Cola, LISC’s Executive Director, called for Pawtucket’s older residents to participate in the survey, stressing that the data collected would drive the city’s planning and policies, rather than relying on assumptions. “Let your voice be heard. If you don’t participate, you don’t get what you want,” she said.
Mayor Grebien closed the event with a light-hearted remark: “Now that I’ve turned 58, I truly understand the importance of the Age-Friendly Initiative.” He expressed excitement about the opportunities that would emerge from this effort.
Comments from the Crowd
“The support shown at the kick-off event by AARP leadership, Mayor Grebien, and so many organizations across the City was just amazing,” said Maureen Maigret, policy advisor for the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island (SACRI). “Now, the work begins as the Task Force reviews the survey data to identify which areas to target for initial efforts.”
As a Pawtucket native, Maigret was thrilled to see the city’s Age-Friendly designation come to fruition. She had previously served as a consultant for Newport 4 All Ages, Rhode Island’s first Age-Friendly Community.
“I was so energized by the turnout at the Age-Friendly designation event in Pawtucket,” said Carol Anne Costa, Executive Director of SARI. “And kudos to Mary Lou and her team. The day demonstrated the power of community. Advocacy depends on citizens speaking and acting in their own best interests. Pawtucket’s work shows that older adults are ready to make Rhode Island a state that promotes healthy aging.”
Age-Friendly Pawtucket Task Force Members
· Pawtucket Senior Citizens Council
· Pawtucket Commission on Arts & Culture
· Blackstone Valley Community Action Program
· Blackstone Health, Inc.
· Blackstone Valley Prevention Coalition
· Gateway Healthcare/Brown University Health
Resources:
1. Step-by-Step Toolkit for Creating an Age-Friendly Community
Start the process of becoming an age-friendly community by following this guide:
Age-Friendly Toolkit [shared.outlook.inky.com]2. Understanding AARP’s Age-Friendly Process
Learn more about AARP’s approach to creating age-friendly communities:
AARP Age-Friendly Communities [shared.outlook.inky.com]___
Author Archives for Herb Weiss
Walktober with AARP: Neighborhood Walks and Walk Audits across Providence
Published in RINewsToday on September 29, 2025
As part of AARP Rhode Island’s ongoing Livable Communities initiatives, the state’s largest aging organization will launch a series of “Walktober” events next month in collaboration with America Walks, local elected officials, municipal departments, planners, outreach specialists, volunteers, and community groups. The effort will feature neighborhood walks and walk audits across Providence. Accessibility is a priority, ensuring that people using mobility aids are included.
According to AARP Rhode Island, walking through neighborhoods allows volunteers to document and report infrastructure issues such as missing or uneven sidewalks, unsafe crosswalks, inadequate lighting, and the lack of benches, shade, and green space. These findings will help shape proposals for community improvements. The goal is to raise public awareness and highlight the importance of well-designed, well-maintained, and inclusive sidewalks, curb cuts, bump outs, and pedestrian-friendly spaces that contribute to a thriving community.
AARP Rhode Island notes that Walktober is a collaboration between the nonprofit and America Walks has organized nearly a dozen free, engaging community events aimed at helping residents appreciate walking as an enjoyable and healthy alternative to other means of getting around.
They Walk Their Talk
Taking part in Walktober is internationally known “multidisciplinary walking artist” and mobility justice activist Jonathon Stalls, who founded Walk2Connect (now Walk America) in 2012 after completing a 3,030-mile walk across the nation in 2010. Stalls will join America Walks board member Garrett Brumfield, a disability rights advocate and popular “sit-down” comedian, at the kickoff event scheduled for Wednesday, October 8. The event begins with a free “connection walk” at 5:00 p.m., followed by a free public walk, talk, book signing, and reception at the Providence Public Library.
Stalls, a respected author, wrote WALK: Slow Down, Wake Up, and Connect at 1–3 Miles Per Hour. The 240-page book, published by North Atlantic Books, is a collection of essays exploring the benefits of walking—for both individuals and communities—and how walking can be transformational. Attendees will receive a free copy.
Over the years, Stalls has documented his long walks, including a 200-mile trek from Providence to New York to explore how built environments affect communities, especially marginalized residents who cannot or do not drive. Walking, he argues, reveals how public spaces can become safer and more inclusive for all. At national and international conferences, Stalls advocates for transportation systems that prioritize pedestrians and calls for incorporating mobility justice into urban planning.
Joining him is Garrett Brumfield, a Roanoke, Virginia resident and disability rights advocate living with cerebral palsy. He calls for improved public transportation, mobility infrastructure, and community planning that make cities accessible to all—older adults, wheelchair users, and families with strollers alike.
On LinkedIn, Brumfield explains:“It is my mission to use my story and my experiences of living with Cerebral Palsy to help others overcome whatever obstacles stand in their way. Whether your obstacle is big or small, permanent or temporary, I believe you have the power to overcome it. The steps may be small, and the journey may be long, but I guarantee it’ll be worth it. I’m overcoming mine—how will you overcome yours?”
Also known as a sit-down comedian, Brumfield uses humor to break down barriers and promote empathy and awareness around disability issues. His performances challenge stereotypes and encourage new perspectives about what people with disabilities can do.
Brumfield serves on the board of Walk America, based in Seattle, Washington, which advocates for walkability, accessibility, and disability rights nationwide. He completed his Walking College Fellowship through America Walks in 2017 and has since become a mentor in the program, while collaborating on initiatives to improve walkability and “rollability” across the country.
Walking Audits in Providence Neighborhoods
As part of Walktober, AARP Rhode Island has scheduled additional walks and audits throughout October. On October 9, a Broadway Walk/Roll Audit will take place, along with other events including a Comedy Walk & Roll with Brumfield and a Glow Stick Walk/Roll Dance Party.
Other Walktober walks are being hosted by Village Common Walking Group, Providence Preservation Society and Ocean State Center for Independent Living.
Through AARP’s 2025 Community Challenge grants, Providence’s Age-Friendly PVD initiative is funding four walk audits in neighborhoods with high concentrations of older adults to identify pedestrian safety challenges.
“AARP Rhode Island is pleased to work with so many community partners and with America Walks to promote access and safety for walkers and rollers of all ages and abilities,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor. “Walktober is truly a celebration, and we hope, at times, an inspiration as well as a wake-up call, as walk audits throughout the city reveal barriers and unsafe conditions that need to be addressed.
Added Taylor, “Walking is great exercise, and as walking groups become more and more popular, they serve as an opportunity for socialization that is very important to many people as they age.”
Here is How It Works…
According to AARP Rhode Island, walk audits involve participants walking through neighborhoods and noting infrastructure issues: missing or uneven sidewalks, unsafe crosswalks, poor lighting, or lack of benches and shade. Participants then document and report their findings so changes can be proposed and considered.
The events are meant to be inclusive, with accessibility a top priority. Walk audits not only identify safety concerns but also raise public awareness and encourage cities to take action.
Get Involved
· For kickoff event and registration details and locations of walk audits visit register: www.aarp.org/RIWalktober, where you also will find an interactive Walktober Map.
· To learn how to assess and report on the safety and walkability of a street, intersection, or neighborhood, visit the AARP Walk Audit Tool Kit at https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/getting-around/aarp-walk-audit-tool-kit.html
Senior Agenda Coalition of RI’s 16th Annual Conference, Expo, Awards
Published in RINewsToday on September 15, 2025
The clock is ticking. There are just 10 days left to register for the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island’s (SACRI) 16th Annual Conference and Expo “Navigating Choppy Waters – Shelter from the Storm” at Rhodes on the Pawtucket, on September 25th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Breakfast and lunch boxes will be provided for attendees.
At this annual event, which is expected to draw hundreds, as in prior years, SACRI Executive Director, Carol Anne Costa, will present the inaugural Marjorie Waters Award for Service.
In Feb. 2024, Rhode Island’s aging, advocacy and disability communities were shaken by the passing of Marjorie Waters. Costa noted that after leaving a corporate career, Waters made her mark in the aging network, leaving a legacy of deep and lasting impact throughout the state.
“Marjorie dedicated her life to lifting marginalized voices and creating opportunities where others might have seen obstacles,” said Costa. “The award named in her honor ensures her legacy is not only remembered but carried forward by others who share her passion for service.”
SACRI’s Policy Advisor Maureen Maigret added, “We are living in stressful times. Programs supporting the marginalized are under the threat and reality of deep cuts, and highlighting Marjorie’s legacy is a positive way to celebrate service to our shared humanity and bolster the energy needed to continue this work.”
Board Chair Kathy McKeon, echoed that sentiment: “Celebrating the work of these individuals is how we, as an organization can collectively honor those who walk the walk and impact the folks among us who need the advocacy and compassion of champions like Ray and Sister Norma.”
A Life of Advocacy
Marjorie, a 1979 graduate from Rhode Island College with a degree in political science, began her career in information technology. She served as director of information technology for a Tribal Nation and later as a Six Sigma Process Excellence Coach in the finance industry.
Leaving corporate life, she turned her energy to supporting older Rhode Islanders. As director of the Providence’s Westminster Senior Center, she quickly recognized the daily challenges of older adults. She went on to lead advocacy efforts for the Home Care Independence Provider Program and the Raise the Bar coalitions, both of which secured key legislative victories to improve home and nursing home care.
In 2015, Waters joined the Rhode Island Organizing Project, working to expand access to health care, transportation, and community-based service. In 2022, SACRI recognized her with the Senior Heroes Award for Outstanding Service on behalf of Older Rhode Islanders. She also played a central role in the Save RIPTA Campaign, which prevented devastating cuts to bus service.
“Marjorie’s work and relationships in the aging space were herculean, Costa said. “Her death was a blow to so many people and organizations who worked for older adults and adults with disabilities. Honoring her memory and celebrating her work was a driving factor for creating this award.” says Costa.
Celebrating the First Recipients
Costa announced that SACRI has chosen Ray Gagne and Sister Norma Fleming, RSM as the first awardees.
“In recognizing leaders in this field, the Marjorie Waters Award is a story about who we are and what we aspire to be as a community, Costa explained. “Celebrating the work of these two individuals provides examples of advocacy that affirm humanity in every stage of life and every ability.”
She added, Ray Gagne worked, shoulder to shoulder with Marjorie, focused on transportation and transformed what could have been a devastating cut to mobility and accessibility into a matter of equity and independence.”
Gagne has been Director/Lead Organizer of Rhode Island Organizing Project (RIOP) since 2006, leading campaigns to expand access to transportation, long-term care and health care. Prior to that, he directed campaigns around adult education, affordable housing, and after-school programs in Massachusetts.
“Sister Norma Fleming, RSM, embodies service and compassion through her direct work with adults with disabilities at ReFocus, Inc. and through her lifetime ministry and service to adults with disabilities, exemplifying what it means to foster inclusion and enrich lives, adds Costa.
Costa also praised Sister Norman Fleming, RSM, for a lifetime of service. “Sister Norma embodies service and compassion through her direct work with adults with disabilities at Re-Focus, Inc., , many other service agencies and through her ministry with the Sisters of Mercy,” said Costa.
At 90, Sister Fleming continues her service, having enriched countless lives through her leadership at ReFocus, Inc., her classroom teaching, and as a former principal at St. Mary Academy – Bay View Elementary.
Looking Ahead: Great Keynote, Knowledge, Resources, and Inspiration
The conference will also feature 35 vendors and organizations providing services and resources for older adults and caregivers. Sponsors will provide breakfast and boxed lunches.
“This program will deliver knowledge and resources in many areas,” Costa said. “Whether you’re planning for the future, seeking health insights, or navigating the complexities of caregiving, attendees will leave feeling more prepared and empowered,” she says.
Costa noted that Dr. Ed Iannuccilli was selected as keynote speaker for his medical experience and his deep understanding of the culture of health care. “As an older adult and an author, he brings so much into the conversation on a wide swath of issues,” she said.
“We all review data. And in this time of Zoom meetings and remote working, we need to get together,” added Costa. “This conference is about learning together, and Dr. Iannuccilli is the perfect person to set the tone. Often, subjects on aging can be difficult and sobering. This is SACRI’s way of talking about serious things with serious people in a happy place.”
United Healthcare is the presenting sponsor of SACRI’s “Shelter from the Storm.” Supporting sponsors are Blue Cross/Blue Shield of RI, Neighborhood Health, Delta Dental, Navigant Credit Union, SEIU, Age Friendly RI as well as a plethora of various agencies, businesses and nonprofits. This support allows SACRI to do the work to deliver good policy and law for all of Rhode Island’s older adults and adults with disabilities.
How to Register
For program specifics, visit https://rinewstoday.com/senior-agenda-coalition-of-rhode-island-fall-conference/.
To register, go to https://sacri.org/event/navigating-choppy-waters-shelter-from-the-storm/
To learn more about SACRI, visit SACRI.org
Herb Weiss 