This August, AARP Alaska celebrated the 90th Anniversary of the Social Security Act being signed. Since being enacted on August 14th, 1935, Social Security has supported a secure retirement for millions of Americans, helping them to retire and age with dignity. In its 90 years, Social Security has never missed a payment, which allows Americans to reap the benefits of their hard work with certainty.
Honoring a Milestone Statewide
AARP Alaska celebrated with a series of Social Security 90th events statewide. AARP Alaska hosted three Social Security parties at Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center, Anchorage Senior Activity Center, and Wasilla Area Senior Center. Members of Congress sent videos to be played at the beginning of each event, followed by a trivia game on Social Security and the year 1935 with prizes. A “back in 1935” placemat with fun facts was put at each seat (pictured below).
Those over the age of 90 also received a special prize. Seniors were then asked to sign large Social Security card stickers with what Social Security meant for them, and then stick them onto a giant 90th Anniversary card, which was taken to multiple events (and provided a great photo op!). Participants left with a greater knowledge of Social Security and what it does.
To allow statewide participation in the anniversary, AARP Alaska also created a “Social Security Event Toolkit” that was sent out to senior centers and event hosts across the state. The kit included trivia questions, prizes, videos from the congressional delegation, “back in 1935” placemats, and other resources to increase engagement and education. Additionally, the giant Social Security card was taken to the Palmer State Fair, the AARP Anchorage Fall Financial Fitness Fair, and the Alaska Federation of Natives Conference…