[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8809--MAY 1, 2012

Proclamation 8809 of May 1, 2012

Older Americans Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

America endured great trials and heralded defining triumphs over the
course of the 20th century, and the men and women who saw us through
that time remain among our Nation's greatest assets. Through their
guiding wisdom, enduring love of family, and inspiring commitment to
country, older Americans continue to steer and enhance our national
life.
Our seniors make countless contributions as active participants in
communities across America. From our parks and schools to our faith and
service organizations, the generosity and talents of active seniors
augment our children's education, bring our families together, and
strengthen the fabric of our society. This year's theme for Older
Americans Month, ``Never Too Old to Play,'' celebrates the
accomplishments of older Americans and encourages them to find even more
ways to stay engaged. May 7 through May 11, 2012, is also Senior Corps
Week, when we celebrate the service of the over 300,000 Senior Corps
volun-

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teers. Individuals interested in information on local volunteer
opportunities can visit www.SeniorCorps.gov.
As we honor the achievements and ongoing contributions of older
Americans, my Administration is working with States, territories, and
tribes to provide them with support to stay healthy, independent, and
engaged. We remain deeply committed to strengthening Medicare,
protecting Social Security, enhancing Older Americans Act programs, and
implementing the historic Affordable Care Act, which provided more than
32 million seniors with at least one free preventive service or wellness
visit last year and helped over 5 million save more than $3.2 billion on
prescription drug costs in 2010 and 2011. The Department of Health and
Human Services recently awarded more than $1.3 billion in grants to
ensure the health and independence of America's older adults, including
$20 million focused on fitness, chronic disease self-management, and
medication management. And the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is
safeguarding older Americans from unscrupulous financial schemes that
threaten their fiscal security.
Our seniors have devoted their entire lives to building the future their
children and grandchildren deserve. During Older Americans Month, we
celebrate their successes and recommit to supporting them as they shape
America's next great generation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2012 as Older
Americans Month. I call upon all Americans of all ages to acknowledge
the contributions of older Americans during this month and throughout
the year.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of May,
in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.
BARACK OBAMA