News From Wyoming

AARP in Your State

October 2009

Ready for winter — AARP Wyoming volunteers will devote Oct. 21 to community service by making three homes in the Cheyenne area more energy-efficient.

The volunteers will use a tool kit developed by AARP's Create the Good campaign, which gives busy people quick, easy ways to make a difference in others' lives. Besides installing weather-stripping and insulation, the volunteers will use a home-safety checklist to identify and correct possible hazards, such as slippery rugs and poor lighting.

To learn about volunteer opportunities available through Create the Good, go to www.aarp.org/createthegood. For details about the Wyoming event, call 1-866-663-3290 toll-free.

September 2009

Job fair — AARP, the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services  and several other organizations are cosponsoring a workshop this month that will bring local employers together with job seekers age 50-plus.

A faltering economy and rising health care costs are prompting older workers to delay or come out of retirement. Wyoming has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation, and businesses are seeking experienced workers.

The free event—slated for Sept. 29 in Cody—will help workers improve their resumes and offer employers tips on how to manage a multigenerational staff. For reservations, call the Cody Workforce Center at 307-587-4241. For more information, visit aarp.org/wy.

July-August 2009

Fair insurance law — AARP Wyoming successfully lobbied for two new laws that will prevent health insurers from denying coverage without explanation, and will establish a way for customers to contest denied claims.

The prohibition against unexplained denials went into effect July 1. The insurance denial appeals board will start July 1, 2010. Under the new law, health insurance companies can no longer include discretionary clauses in their contracts, which previously allowed them to deny claims for medical procedures.

Consumers who receive a notice of denial by their insurance company should contact the Wyoming Department of Insurance at 1-800-438-5768 or insurance.state.wy.us.

June 2009

Spellers compete — Some of the best spellers in the nation will test their skills at the AARP National Spelling Bee on June 20 in Cheyenne. The annual event showcases the talents of spellers age 50-plus as they compete for more than $1,000 in donated gifts and prizes.

Spellers from more than 25 states have registered, and AARP is seeking more participants. Online registration will remain open until June 14, and walk-ins are welcome on the day of the contest.

The spelling bee and a weekend of related activities will take place at the Little America Hotel and Resort. For more information or sample word lists, or to register, visit www.aarp.org/spellingbee or call AARP Wyoming at 1-866-663-3290 toll-free.