Published in RINewsToday on March 23, 2026

AARP Rhode Island—one of 53 AARP state and territory offices serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—works to improve the quality of life for older Rhode Islanders. The organization promotes positive social change and delivers value to more than 125,000 members through information, advocacy, and service.

Alongside their national headquarters in Washington, D.C., AARP’s nonprofit state offices lead community engagement, advocacy, and educational programming at the local level. As the state’s largest aging advocacy organization, AARP Rhode Island represents its members on key issues, including Social Security taxes, healthcare, and long-term care.

AARP’s advocacy efforts helped secure passage of the Rhode Island Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program and last year’s legislation to regulate crypto ATM kiosks. The organization is now pushing to eliminate the state tax on Social Security and continues to support the state’s more than 121,000 family caregivers.

Fighting fraud is a particular AARP focus year-round, but especially in April and May. In 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission, Rhode Island consumers reported more than 11,776 fraud cases, resulting in an alarming $20.7 million in losses. Consequently, AARP Rhode Island is taking the fight into Ocean State communities.

“Fraud prevention is about action,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor – “When AARP shows up in communities with trusted tools and local workshops, we’re helping neighbors protect themselves and each other. We’re delighted to partner with the East Side/Mount Hope YMCA and the Cranston YMCA to address this escalating threat.”

Also in response, AARP Rhode Island will host a free “Fraud Fighting Fridays” document-shredding event, in Providence at the A. Vincent Igliozzi Recreation Center, 675 Plainfield Street, on Friday, April 10, from 9 a.m. to noon. This is the first of nine drive-thru drop-off workshops scheduled statewide through June. Registration and details are available at www.aarp.org/RIEvents.

Also – mark your calendar for the upcoming three free presentations from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the East Side/Mount Hope YMCA (Meeting Room), 438 Hope Street, Providence.

April 8, 2026
Topic: Fraud Basics — The Scam Landscape & Staying Safe

In 2024, Rhode Island recorded 11,776 fraud reports to the Federal Trade Commission. That same year, there were approximately 2,896 identity theft cases in the Ocean State, which consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for identity theft per capita. According to AARP Rhode Island, the AARP Fraud Watch Network is helping empower older adults to fight back against scams by providing trusted tools and resources to recognize, avoid, and report fraud.

At this workshop, you’ll learn about the latest fraud trends, along with practical tips and resources to help protect yourself and your family. With just a few simple steps, you can reduce your risk and take control. Volunteer instructors will highlight common scams, explain how to spot red flags, and break down the tactics scammers use to target individuals. You’ll also learn what to do if you encounter fraud and where to turn for help—so you can better protect yourself and your loved ones.

April 15, 2026
Topic: Government Impostor Scams

According to the Federal Trade Commission, in 2024, adults aged 60 and older reported losing millions of dollars to scammers posing as representatives of trusted government agencies and businesses. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their efforts to steal your money and personal information—often by pretending to be someone they’re not, says AARP Rhode Island. At this workshop, you’ll learn what government impostor scams are and the tactics scammers use to target victims. You’ll also receive practical tips on how to spot these scams and access resources to help protect yourself.

April 22, 2026
Topic: Vigilance Against Cybercrime

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, approximately 1,642 Rhode Islanders were victims of cybercrime in 2025. However, the true number is likely much higher, as many incidents go unreported. In today’s fast-moving digital world, AARP Rhode Island emphasizes that safeguarding your personal information is more important than ever. Whether you’re in public, at home, shopping online, using social media, or managing your finances, this workshop will provide practical guidance to help you stay safe and secure. You’ll learn how to recognize the latest scams, protect your digital identity, and take control of your online safety.

Another three workshops, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will be held at the Cranston YMCA, 1225 Park Avenue, Cranston

April 28, 2026
Topic: Government Impostor Scams

This workshop, similar to the one held earlier in Providence, will explain what government impostor scams are and detail the tactics scammers use to target victims. You’ll also learn practical tips on how to spot these scams and access resources to help protect yourself.

May 5, 2026
Topic: Downsizing and Decluttering

Let AARP Rhode Island show you how to simplify and declutter your life. If you’re looking to clear out items accumulated over the years, join this free workshop to learn practical organizing strategies. During this one-hour session, you’ll learn how to begin your decluttering journey and how better organization can positively impact your daily life.

May 12, 2026
Topic: Understanding Social Security

Learn the ABCs of Social Security and gain a clearer understanding of how this vital retirement program works. Instructors will share information and resources to help you make informed decisions about when to claim your benefits. The workshop will explain the differences between full, early, and delayed retirement benefits, as well as spousal and survivor benefits. It will also touch on ongoing efforts in Congress to ensure the program’s long-term financial stability.To register for these workshops, go to AARP Rhode Island Upcoming Events.

 Herb Weiss, LRI, 12, is a Pawtucket-based writer who has covered aging, healthcare, and medical issues for more than 45 years. To purchase his books, Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly and its two sequels, visit herbweiss.com.