    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 7669 of April 30, 2003

    Older Americans Month, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Advances in medicine, public health, science, and technology are keeping
    Americans healthier and adding years to our lives. As our population of
    senior citizens continues to grow, our Nation remains dedicated to
    fulfilling our promises to these valuable members of our society. This
    year's observance of Older Americans Month, ``What We Do Makes A
    Difference,'' recognizes the important contributions of older

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    Americans and the network of services that support them. Older Americans
    continue to work in a variety of jobs, from teachers, to engineers, to
    business owners and entrepreneurs, and in so doing bring invaluable
    experience and leadership skills. Additionally, their wisdom, strength,
    and compassion reflect the character of our great Nation. During this
    month, we honor our seniors and thank them for the lessons they teach us
    and the strong values they instill in families and communities
    throughout our country.
    Serving as examples to others, throughout our Nation every day, older
    Americans are engaging in acts of compassion. Over a half million
    members of the Senior Corps are volunteering their time and talents to
    help those in need. Retired doctors, nurses, police, and firefighters
    are helping communities prepare for emergencies, and countless other
    older Americans are bringing comfort and care to their families and
    neighbors. These individuals understand the importance of service, and
    their efforts are helping to build a more welcoming society. Many food
    banks, clothing distribution programs, and other social service
    activities of faith-based and community organizations could not operate
    without the senior Americans who volunteer in these efforts.
    As these individuals continue to work on our behalf, our Nation is
    working to fulfill our obligations to older Americans by providing them
    with good health care and other services to enhance their lives. My
    Administration is coordinating with State and Area Agencies on Aging,
    and faith-based and community organizations to better provide essential
    services, such as meals, nutrition, counseling, and health screening, to
    our seniors. Seven million older Americans and their families are
    currently being served by a large network of Federal, State, tribal,
    local partnerships, and thousands of volunteers. The services provided
    by these groups make it easier for older Americans to remain in their
    homes, communities, and the workplace, which helps preserve their
    dignity and independence.
    In addition, our Medicare system is our binding commitment as a caring
    society. When Medicare was signed into law 38 years ago, it was designed
    to bring the healing miracle of modern medicine to our senior citizens.
    We must renew our commitment to giving seniors access to the
    preventative medicines and new drugs that are transforming health care
    in America. Medicare must be available in a variety of forms, and older
    Americans must have the opportunity to choose the healthcare plan that
    best fits their needs. My Administration will continue its efforts to
    improve programs that support older Americans and to offer innovative
    options for long-term care.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2003 as Older
    Americans Month. I commend our senior citizens for their many
    contributions to our society. I further commend the network of Federal,
    State, local, and tribal organizations, service and healthcare
    providers, caregivers, and millions of dedicated volunteers for their
    daily efforts on behalf of our senior citizens. I encourage all
    Americans to honor their elders, to find opportunities to address their
    needs, and to work together to reinforce the bonds that unite families
    and communities. I also call upon all our citizens to publicly reaffirm
    our Nation's commitment to older Americans this month, and throughout
    the year.

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    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
    April, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    seventh.
    GEORGE W. BUSH