BISMARCK, N.D. – Today, Bismarck becomes the first city in North Dakota to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.
It will be announced at today’s Bismarck City Commission meeting that the city’s application to join the network has been accepted. AARP North Dakota State Director Josh Askvig will welcome the city to the network and present an acceptance certificate.
“Membership in the network shows that a community’s elected leadership is committed to working with residents and advocates to make their town, city, county or even state a great place to live for older adults and people of ages,” Askvig said.
Enrollment in the network provides member communities with the resources to become more age-friendly by tapping into national and global research, planning models and best practices.
Founded in 2012, the AARP network encourages states, cities, towns and counties to prepare for the rapid aging of the U.S. population. With support and guidance from the network – which is an organizational affiliate of the World Health Organization Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities – member communities adopt a framework to address the economic, structural, environmental, and social issues that influence the health and well-being of older adults. By doing so, a community becomes a better place to live for residents of all ages.
Nationwide, 542 communities representing more than 104 million residents have joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. Learn more about the network and how to become involved at aarp.org/together2045.
AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities will be an asset for Bismarck leaders as they continue to improve their community. Bismarck’s comprehensive plan – called Together 2045 – will be the roadmap working towards a more livable, age-friendly community. As a first step to gather public input, Bismarck will be sending out a postcard linked to a survey regarding this plan.
“The survey will be sent out this month to a sample of residents, so if you receive one, it is very important that you complete it,” said Mayor Steve Bakken. “The input from Bismarck residents will help shape the future of Bismarck. After all, engaged citizens build stronger communities.”