ESCANABA — The City of Escanaba is proud to announce its enrollment in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, a program dedicated to promoting livable communities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

Escanaba is now the 991st member of the Network and the first in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to join. This step places us among an expansive network of communities united in their commitment to age-friendly initiatives. By joining the Network, Escanaba has made a commitment to identifying and addressing the needs of its aging population, creating a more inclusive and accessible community.

“Joining the AARP Network is an important step for Escanaba,” James McNeil, city manager, “We’re focused on building a welcoming community where everyone can thrive.”

Enrollment in the Network requires communities to conduct an assessment of their age- friendliness, identify strategies for improvement, and implement those strategies over time. As part of this process, Escanaba will work to ensure that the voice of residents 50 and older are included throughout.

“We congratulate Escanaba on their enrollment in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities,” said Mike Watson, AARP Director of Livable Communities, “We look forward to supporting them as they work to create a community that is more livable and inclusive for

people of all ages.”

For more information about the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, visit AARP.org/AgeFriendly.