News From Oregon

AARP in Your State

July-August 2009

Online support — With an unemployment rate that is the second highest in the country, Oregon's economic woes are considerable. To help residents affected by hard times, AARP Oregon this month is launching ECONnect.

This online community network will help Oregonians connect with others who have experienced financial problems, as well as helping residents learn about useful resources and get information on related events happening across the state. ECONnect members can share their experiences and strategies for surviving the tough economy, while helping AARP raise awareness with policy makers.

To join the network, go to www.aarp.org/or and select the AARP Oregon ECONnect link.

May 2009

Keep the promise — AARP Oregon is part of a coalition working to preserve and strengthen the state's long-term care system. The Campaign for Oregon's Seniors and People With Disabilities aims to protect home- and community-based services from state budget cuts. Such services help people continue to live in their own homes as they age.

According to the campaign's website, www.oregonspromise.org, the state's long-term care law promised residents would "enjoy their later years in health, honor and dignity" and people with disabilities would "live lives of maximum freedom and independence." The website encourages grassroots activism to ensure such promises are kept. For more information, send an e-mail to info@oregonspromise.org or call 503-513-7375.

April 2009

Call to arms — As lawmakers grapple with a projected $3 billion budget shortfall for 2009-11, AARP Oregon is fighting to stave off cuts to long-term care services and expand access to health care. By rallying members to the state Capitol in Salem on May 6—and urging them to call or e-mail their legislators—AARP aims to protect services that can help people remain in their own homes as they age.

A 10 percent cut in state funding for long-term care could trigger a $110.5 million loss in federal funds, according to a recent study. Every $1 million reduction in state long-term care funds could lead to the loss of 30 jobs and $1.7 million in economic activity. With Oregon's unemployment rate the fifth highest in the nation, AARP members will tell lawmakers that the cost of inaction is too high.

Visit www.aarp.org/or to find out how to get involved.