Older Americans Month in RI Honors Legacy of Congressman John E. Fogarty May 6

Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos and SACRI (Senior Agenda Coalition of RI) Celebrate Older Americans Month
Honoring the Legacy of Congressman John E. Fogarty

On Wednesday May, 6, 2026 Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos, in partnership with the SACRI, will host a statewide observance of Older Americans Month 2026 at the Rhode Island State House in the historic Stateroom. The event will honor the pioneering legacy of Congressman John E. Fogarty, a national leader for public health and aging policy, while celebrating Rhode Island’s leadership in creating vibrant, age-friendly communities. Lt. Governor Matos praised the event, “Older Americans Month gives us the opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to older adult Rhode Islanders. It is a true honor to join SACRI in celebrating the enduring legacy of Congressman John Fogarty, whose vision helped shape aging policy for generations. Today, we build on that legacy by continuing to champion the dignity, well-being, and contributions of every older Rhode Islander.”

Joining the event will be former Lt. Governor Charles Fogarty to honor his uncle’s memory and his historic service to older Americans.“ As Rhode Island’s population ages rapidly, my late uncle, Congressman John E. Fogarty, remains a powerful example of how we can protect the dignity and independence of older Rhode Islanders. The Older Americans Act he championed continues to support vital programs for seniors across Rhode Island and the nation. His legacy shaped my own work as Director of the Division of Elderly Affairs, now the Office of Healthy Aging, in advancing efforts to empower and serve older adults.” 

“Older Americans Month – Rhode Island Lighting the Way in Aging Policy”

• Welcome & Invocation – Carol Anne Costa and Reverend Deborah Bennett
• Opening Remarks – Maureen Maigret, Policy Advocate, overview of Older Americans Month and its 2026 relevance
• Recognition of and Remarks – Congressman Gabe Amo
• Proclamation Reading – Kathy McKeon, Chair SACRI Board
• Executive Greeting – Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos highlights the State’s commitment to older Rhode Islanders, the importance of advocacy visibility, and aging-related legislation
• The Fogarty Legacy – Charles Fogarty, former Lieutenant Governor, shares personal reflections on his uncle’s influence on the Older Americans Act and public service
• Community Recognition – Honoring senior leaders, advocates, and service providers whose work strengthens aging policy and care in Rhode Island.
• Announcement – State House Dome Lighting, May 13–16, in tribute to Older Americans Month
• Stories of Impact – Brief testimonials from older adults and community voices:
  • Maria Cimini, Director, Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging
  • Bev Williams, Caregiving public housing advocate
  • Denise Panichas – The Samaritans RI
  • Rich Gamache, Assisted Living Representative
  • Village Common

Closing & Reception: Final remarks by Lt. Governor Matos and Carol Anne Costa followed by lite lunch and networking reception.

Registration Link https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/IBqYPNj

RSVP / Media Contacts:  Carol Anne Costa and David Folcarelli