Out and About in RI: SACRI’s Celebration of Older Americans Month (photos)

May, 6, 2026 RI State House:  Senior Agenda Coalition of RI (SACRI) in partnership with Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos, hosted a packed State Room for the celebration of Older Americans Month. The event drew a standing room only audience for every corner of RI.

The event honored the pioneering legacy of Congressman John E. Fogarty, a national leader for public health and aging policy, and celebrated Rhode Island’s leadership in creating vibrant, age-friendly communities. Kicking things off SACRI Executive Director, Carol Anne Costa reminded the audience that George Washington was 63 when he stood for Gilbert Stuart the portrait hanging as a magnificent backdrop, he was only 63 years old and passed away 4 years later at Mount Vernon. “He wouldn’t have been eligible for Medicare, but his dedication to democracy and living boldly remain a testament to how far we have come in healthy aging. And, yet we have far to go.”

Costa also informed the guest that the dome will be lit up in green, blue and purple from May 13th- 16th! “It’s so exciting to celebrate you! Drive by, take pics and post them!”

Congressman Gabe Amo framed the day by highlighting the work being done by the RI delegation to support RI ‘s older adults, and acknowledged that Congressman Fogarty’s left a legacy to be a North Star. SACRI Policy Advisor, Maureen Maigret was energized by the size and breadth of the crowd. “This is mind blowing and so necessary to highlight healthy aging in RI.”  SACRI Board Chair, Kathy McKeon, read the Governor’s Proclamation declaring May “Older Americans Month in RI”.  Lt. Governor Sabina Matos brought the Executive Greeting and highlighted the work being done by her team.

OHA Director Maria Cimini presented a fact that silenced the room, “the federal government spends $500M more for Medicaid in RI than it does to implement the entirety of the OAA for the entire nation. It’s a call to action.”

Voices of the community were offered by Denise Panichas of the Samaritans of RI, Cathy Mobley Andreozzi of the Torilynnn Andreozzi Foundation, Richard Gamache of Aldersbridge,  Grace, a volunteer of the Village Common.  They spoke eloquently about,  kindness, helping each other through difficult times, volunteerism, and reconnecting. It is vital to healthy aging.

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PHOTOS:

It was the Keynote of Charles Fogarty which truly spoke to the work of healthy aging in the context of history. He noted his uncle worked quietly and effectively for all RI. His memories of his uncle demonstrated that serving people where they are was a superpower.

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.”