The Department of Elderly Affairs and Florida Sports Foundation celebrated senior citizens at the Capitol’s courtyard Wednesday.
The 14th annual Ambassadors for Aging Day offered music, dancing, performances, free lunch provided by Chik-fil-A and free health screenings. More than 200 seniors showed up to celebrate in the Capitol’s courtyard.
This event brings together elderly caregivers and elder advocates to celebrate and feature the contributions of elderly Floridians. Seniors were offered a wealth of information about benefits the state of Florida offers while having fun in the process.
Fran Ivis, an American Elder Care representative, said the event was beneficial for the community.
“This is a great event, not only for Leon Country but throughout the state,” Ivis said.
People such as Charles Corley, secretary for the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and an honorary ambassador, and Florida commissioners were chosen to speak during Wednesday’s festivities. They shared uplifting words of appreciation with the Florida seniors over lunch.
Corleyspoke on the positivity seniors of Florida bring to the economy and their communities.
“Our state simply wouldn’t be as strong if it weren’t for the seniors,” Corley said. “Our seniors not only contribute greatly, not just to our economy, but they serve as the moral thread to our communities as well.”
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam said the state is excited to honor its senior citizens.
“We’re blessed to be in the Sunshine State,” Putnam said. “Florida is a state that takes care of its seniors. Today we honor our Ambassadors for Aging.”
After the speeches, the party continued with performances from the senior dance groups traveling from as far as Jacksonville and Miami Gardens.
Ashley Marshall, lead coordinator for Ambassadors for Aging Day, said the event had a great turnout.
“We really value the folks that actually can get up here and make that commitment,” Marshall said. “We have wonderful performers, a lot of great sponsors and exhibitors, and overall the energy is great.”