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AARP Pennsylvania at a Glance 2008 Report

Social Impact – Divided We Fail – Member Value –

Diversity – Member Engagement – Brand

Prepared by the Pennsylvania AARP Team

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2008 was an exciting and fruitful year for the AARP Pennsylvania staff, volunteers and the almost two million members in the Commonwealth. From an historic presidential election to a World Series parade, social impact, member engagement and diversity outreach were woven into the very fabric of AARP outreach in 2008. This document shows a small sampling of Pennsylvania’s WORLDCLASS accomplishments achieved from volunteers and staff. Our good work has accomplished statewide penetration on key dashboard objectives such as DWF, Financial Security, Brand, Member Engagement and Diversity.

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PENNSYLVANIA PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY EVENTS

AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement, Brand, DWF The Pennsylvania Presidential Primary took on vital national importance when it became clear in early March that a consensus nominee had not emerged in the Democratic nominating process. With no other states holding presidential nominating contests for six-weeks before the Pennsylvania primary, Pennsylvania became the focus of the Clinton and Obama campaigns, as well as the national media. This afforded the Divided We Fail campaign an opportunity for significant visibility and impact. The Pennsylvania Primary Project was implemented on March 10th and ended with the Primary vote on April 22nd. AARP Pennsylvania, with the support of the national, regional and northeast state offices, mounted a statewide campaign to reach all citizens and the candidates with the message of Divided We Fail. During this period, AARP Pennsylvania participated in over fifty candidate events. In addition, AARP Pennsylvania conducted five Community Conversations during this time.

Stella Hyde – AARP Pennsylvania State President As State President, I am honored to represent the almost 2 million members in Pennsylvania and to work with such well educated, experienced and dedicated staff and volunteers. The accomplishments of this state are outstanding in the way it reaches our members through education, advocacy, community services and other key avenues to enhance their lives and the lives of their families. Thank you to everyone for all the great work in 2008 and I look forward to working with our great team in 2009.

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DEBATE WATCH SESSION – WHYY – CONSTITUTION CENTER AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement, Brand, DWF

As one of our centerpiece events for the six-week Presidential Primary effort, on April 16, 2008 we hosted a Debate Watch Party and Community Conversation to coincide with the Democratic Presidential Debate in Philadelphia. We struck a partnership with WHYY (public radio and TV – across the street from the Constitution Center) to house our activities that evening. We had over 200 people in attendance at the event; we trained volunteers to go out on the streets of Philadelphia to share DWF information with citizens and to seek opportunities with the press to deliver the DWF message; we engaged two hundred people in a Community Conversation; watched the debate; and wrapped up the evening with a Call to Action. We had mobilized a force of two hundred to go out and be a voice for DWF. We also had achieved significant media coverage throughout the evening. Another highlight of the event was access to the Democratic Debate Spin Room. We had staff and the AARP Pennsylvania State President there going around the room sharing the message of DWF with all of the media and political dignitaries present. AARP PA’s State President spoke with news media personalities, the head of the Clinton Campaign and the Governor of Pennsylvania, to only name a few. The evening was a great success to reinforce the presence and importance of DWF as a force in the November election and as our nation moves beyond the elections.

Democratic Presidential Primary Debate Watch

BEAVER COUNTY BLITZ

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Engagement, Brand, DWF AARP Pennsylvania conducted its first Divided We Fail Community Blitz in Western Pennsylvania in Beaver County. Three communities were targeted: Aliquippa, Beaver and Beaver Falls. The outcomes achieved included the engagement of staff and volunteers in a multifaceted program that messaged Divided We Fail throughout the County. The highly successful Blitz helped to build member awareness, engage new volunteers, establish a foundation for capacity growth and development, as well as

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establish AARP as a leader and convener on the issues of health care and financial security.

Fourteen events were conducted in the context of the Beaver County Blitz. Over four thousand Side by Sides, DWF Pamphlets and informational materials

were distributed. AARP PA Community Business Walks were conducted and over forty businesses

were provided with DWF branded items including coffee holders, coasters, book marks and pamphlets.

In Aliquippa, Beaver and Beaver Falls, door hangers were distributed to over three hundred households.

Full page newspaper ads ran for three days in the Beaver County Times providing information on DWF and the activities being held in Beaver County.

An article on the AARP sponsored Senate District 47 candidates debate ran in the Beaver County Times.

An article outlining Beaver County Blitz activities ran in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Divided We Fail spots ran for three days and AARP PA conducted two separate news interviews for broadcast on radio station WBVT.

Both Geneva College and Penn State-Beaver were targeted for DWF messaging with hundreds of DWF branded materials distributed to students and to parents.

A Community Conversation was held with the COO of the local health system, the publisher of the Beaver Times, the President of the Chamber of Commerce, a County Commissioner, the District Director for the area’s Member of Congress, a local small businessperson and other community leaders. The conversation focused on the issues of health care access and financial security with many issues raised that confront the community and its business leaders.

The 24’ by 15’ DWF Mobil Billboard was unveiled at the Beaver County Blitz and was used as a focal point throughout the Blitz.

KALEIDOSCOPE MEMBER EVENT AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement, Member Value, Brand In conjunction with Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) and five other colleges and universities, AARP’s Academic Affairs Department, held a series of informative seminars for three distinct target audiences: community college personnel; Boomers; and, entrepreneurs. AARP developed a brochure, conducted a mailing, and provided the keynote and workshop speakers for “Kaleidoscope – a twist on education” which drew 93 individuals to a largely rural community college in northeastern PA. Dr. Rick Moody served as keynote speaker to community college representatives from across the country on how to prepare community colleges for the challenges and opportunities of an aging population. Dr. Moody also presented a hands-on look at “the new aging enterprise” in which he examined “silver industries” and opportunities for innovation in an aging society. Dr. Moody also captivated a Boomer audience with his discourse on creativity in the second half of life. All three events received rave reviews by each of the three distinctly different audiences. These offering set the stage for additional opportunities,

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including further work in partnership with LCCC, further engagement of our members who participated, and further work in the area of boomers transitioning to be entrepreneurs. In addition, each attendee received information on AARP’s self directed activity website, thus providing linkage with our member engagement initiative. VERIZON REGULATORY VICTORY AARP Dashboard – Social Impact AARP achieved a long fought regulatory victory, representing the culmination of years of advocacy work in Pennsylvania. A PUC ruling against Verizon nullified their discriminatory policy to exclude low income, Lifeline customers from receiving telephone service discounts if they subscribed to bundled service packages such as caller ID, call waiting, etc. AARP volunteers on the Consumer Issues Task Force had been active in prior testimony and advocacy for Lifeline improvements. LANCASTER BLITZ AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Engagement, Brand, DWF Pennsylvania staff held a very successful three day DWF Blitz in Lancaster. Nearly 500 DWF pledges were signed, including one by the Mayor of Lancaster. More than 20 new AARP volunteers were enlisted and AARP developed a partnership with local radio stations 101 the Rose and Smooth Jazz 92.7 to co-sponsor a series of large scale public events such as Lancaster Barnstormers baseball, Celebrate Lancaster, and a DWF Rally and 50th Anniversary picnic which attracted a capacity turnout. CHAMP was on hand along with AARP volunteers to throw out the first pitch at the baseball game. AARP members were able to secure discounted tickets and the prize wheel was very active. Attendees were encouraged to sign DWF pledges during the ballgame. A good mix of serious offerings, such as an editorial board meeting, a community conversation and a long term care town hall meeting blended with fireworks, music and other fun offerings to engage the community in learning about and pledging their support for Divided We Fail.

Champ and AARP volunteers throw out the first ball at the Lancaster Barnstormers game

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AARP 50th ANNIVERSARY

AARP Dashboard - Member Value, Brand AARP state offices took part in the association’s 50th anniversary with coast-to-coast festivities building on a strong foundation of leadership and service to others. The Philadelphia region kicked off the Pennsylvania State Office celebrations in true form and fashion with a host of regional events, and to make this celebration even more noteworthy for AARP members, the state’s governor, the Honorable Edward G. Rendell, served as an honorary chair for AARP’s 50th anniversary in Pennsylvania. Philadelphia – City Hall, Council Chambers

City Hall Proclamation – Sponsor – Councilwoman Jannie L. Blackwell Southeast Pennsylvania volunteers joined members of the National Board, Robert Romasco and Dick Johnson, Pennsylvania State President Estella Hyde and staff to accept a City of Philadelphia Proclamation on AARP’s 50th Anniversary and 50 years of service. Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, along with other council members, presented our volunteers with the proclamation and highlighted AARP’s commitment to serving and educating the community.

Philadelphia City Hall Proclamation

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Delaware County – Harrah’s Casino Exhibit Hall Celebrate Age Expo and Centenarian Birthday Celebration In partnership with the Delaware County Office on Aging, AARP PA joined top industry leaders Independence Blue Cross, Boeing and others in the “Celebrate Age Expo.” Special presentations were given on AARP’s newest campaign “Divided We Fail” and information was provided on our products, services and membership. AARP also took part in celebrating local centenarians during a special luncheon honoring the seniors. AARP was on hand to interview the honorees on their life lessons and experiences. Philadelphia – Central High School AARP High School Legacy Award AARP named Central High School’s “Power of Student Voices” program as the Andrus Legacy Award winner. The program helps connect citizens to the political process and has engaged policymakers across all levels of government. AARP was joined by the Philadelphia School District’s Chief of Staff, The Mayor’s Secretary of Education and over five-hundred students and faculty from Central High for the $100,000 grant presentation to Central High School in recognition of their award-wining program. Montgomery County – Norristown Area High School AARP High School Innovation Award The Norristown Area High School’s Family Advocacy System program was named AARP’s Legacy Innovation Award winner. This innovative program promotes small student learning communities, supervision for instructional improvement and provides family advocates who are focused on student academic success and the attainment of their goals. AARP recognized this award winning program and presented a $10,000 grant to Norristown Area High School’s student body and faculty. Philadelphia – AARP National Day of Service West Shore Revitalization Project AARP, in collaboration with “Rebuilding Together Philadelphia,” assisted in a revitalization project in the West Shore section of West Philadelphia. This special community collaboration made the West Shore community more livable for people as they age. Community projects included rehabbing over 30 homes for senior residents, community lot improvements, and adding a handicap accessible lift to the Southwest Community Enrichment Center. Philadelphia – University of Pennsylvania Irvine Auditorium Washington Week with Gwen Ifill & National Journal AARP was a proud sponsor of the popular Friday public affairs TV program “Washington Week with Gwen Ifill & National Journal.” AARP members and volunteers had an opportunity to join the studio audience for a special taping in

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Philadelphia. During a special taping of a live Q&A segment of the show, AARP was front and center with volunteers asking important questions regarding the coming race for the White House and economic security and affordable healthcare.

Washington Week with Gwen Ifill & National Journal taping in Philadelphia

UNITY DAY

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Diversity, Member Value, Brand AARP and Clear Channel Radio took part in an existing partnership this August for the 30th Annual Unity Day community event in Philadelphia. This keystone Philadelphia event celebrated family values, pride and empowerment and was produced by Clear Channel’s local affiliate WDAS Radio. AARP joined this year’s event to advance our national outreach efforts involving the 2008 economic stimulus package. Philadelphia County had one of the highest levels of unclaimed stimulus payments in excess of over $14 million. Partnering with our local IRS office, both AARP and the IRS distributed over 5,000 economic stimulus payment information and local IRS information. A SICK SYSTEM: IS AMERICAN HEALTH CARE AILING?

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, DWF, Brand WHYY (Philadelphia Public Television) taped a program that aired on October 31, 2008. The program featured AARP State President Stella Hyde, who was part of a panel of leaders from various facets of health care that talked about the American and PA health care systems. Stella’s presentation included an overview of DWF and the need for everyone to work together to make health care reform a reality. This show aired in Southeast Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey.

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BOOMERVISION – STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement, Member Value

AARP Pennsylvania co-sponsored, in conjunction with Coming of Age, the final Boomervision session for 2008 at the WHYY studio in Philadelphia. Over 85 people, predominantly men of diverse backgrounds were in attendance for the program. Lead by Rick Anthony, a panel of experts provided information on starting your own business as one of the potential transitions that we make in life as we age. The program was well received and also provided another avenue to reach out to Boomers and engage them in the work of AARP. BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE – THE 50+ WORKER

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact For many companies in the United States, the changing demographics of the labor force and looming exodus of retirement-eligible employees pose significant challenges and opportunities in terms of talent retention, acquisition and management. While many 50+ workers may exit the workforce, others will be looking to stay, some in new occupations and roles. To discuss these challenges, AARP held a business roundtable event held at the Philadelphia Hub Cira Center and drew high level industry experts from both the public and private sectors including: The Pennsylvania Workforce Investment Board (PA. Department of Labor and Industry); Vanguard (2007, 2008 Best Employer Winner); Towers Perrin; Villanova University; The Frankford Candy Company (2007, 2008 Best Employer Winner); Economy League of Greater Philadelphia; Main Line Chamber of Commerce; JEVS, Career Solutions; and other regional experts. Joined by Larry Cohen of the AARP National Workforce Issues team, AARP PA was able to provide a national synopsis of our 50+ workforce agenda. The roundtable was also joined by Bob Gerrity, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Investment Board, who was able to provide an overview of the 50+ worker in Pennsylvania. We attracted a few media opportunities. AARP staff and roundtable participants were interviewed by a reporter from the Philadelphia Inquirer and also taped a radio interview from the statewide radio news service that was featured on air after the meeting. Our next steps of interaction with the business roundtable include on-going collaboration efforts with members for the promotion of the AARP 50+ worker agenda. BENEPHILLY – LOW INCOME OUTREACH

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Low Income, Diversity AARP partnered with City and State Officials to launch “BenePhilly.” BenePhilly is a joint initiative to enroll the thousands of low-income Philadelphians eligible for, but not receiving, valuable Federal and State benefits. BenePhilly will initially focus on the more than 60,000 older Philadelphians who are eligible for but not enrolled in benefits including the PACE prescription drug program, Food Stamps and the State property tax

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and rent rebates. BenePhilly’s goal is to sign Philadelphians up for more than $15 million in annual Federal and State benefits.

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT: ENGAGING SENIORS IN VOLUNTEERING & EMPLOYMENT

AARP Dashboard –Member Value Pennsylvania State Director, Dick Chevrefils was appointed by Governor Edward Rendell to the Core Team that will lead Pennsylvania’s commitment to engage seniors in voluntary and employment opportunities. Pennsylvania was selected by the National Governors Association to participate in the Policy Academy of the NGA’s Center for Best Practices. This opportunity will assist Pennsylvania in enhancing its employment services, education, volunteerism and in developing a strategic plan. BUCKS COUNTY BLITZ

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Engagement, Brand, DWF Bucks County residents and members came together for the first in a series of events promoting affordable healthcare and financial security for all Americans. Elected officials, business industry leaders and community organizers joined AARP for a special community conversation as part of its nationwide Divided We Fail campaign to put bi-partisan politics aside and engage the public, candidates and elected officials in a discussion about providing affordable healthcare and financial security for all citizens. DWF was prominently featured for several other activities including serving as event host for the Vice Presidential Debate watch event where attendees discussed the importance of financial security and healthcare and were featured in a post debate coverage article for the Bucks County Courier. The Oxford Valley Mall and Doylestown Oktoberfest welcomed DWF as staff and volunteers educated residents on the importance of DWF. DWF was well branded in Bucks County with giveaways, signage, advertisements and op-ed coverage in the Bucks County Courier.

DWF Bucks County Blitz – Oktoberfest participant with cutout candidates

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DWF Bucks County Blitz--Oxford Valley Mall – participant with cutout candidate DWF - PRESIDENT ELECTION VISIT

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, DWF One of the many campaign stops the Pennsylvania staff and volunteers in the Southeast region attended this election season is the one pictured below. This was a special Obama campaign stop in the Germantown section of Philadelphia held in October. This special invitation-only 500 person rally was filled to capacity with another 3,000 supporters eager to attend outside the park venue. Volunteers and staffers successfully branded the DWF message with promotional items and voter guides.

Divided We Fail—President elect Obama at Vernon Park, Germantown, Philadelphia

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DWF- TODAY SHOW IN PHILADELPHIA — BATTLEGROUND STATES

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, DWF, Brand America's number-one morning program kicked off "'TODAY Takes on the Battleground States" live from Philadelphia this past quarter. Show anchors Meredith Vieira and Al Roker profiled Pennsylvania voters during the special broadcast. AARP staff and volunteers were prominently placed during the live broadcast for invaluable DWF on-camera exposure and interaction with Today Show hosts. The state office also interacted with Governor Edward G. Rendell during his appearance on the broadcast. The show then traveled to Florida, Virginia, Michigan and Mississippi.

Divided We Fail - The Today Show in Philadelphia with Al Roker

Carl Bailey, Philadelphia, Executive Council Member The Divided We Fail events made for a wonderful social gathering. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet and speak to other members of AARP. We had a chance to hold some very intellectual conversations about continuing to make AARP a stronger organization. Due to the fabulous outcome from these events, we hope to work on our mission, and build an even stronger community and event gathering for the years to come. AARP has a beauty which is not comparable to other organizations; it is very diversified. This gives all of our members and volunteers a chance to learn, understand, and be open to acknowledging other cultures as we are all one.

Ed Petersohn, Montgomery County Volunteer As I attended these event there was one thing that immediately struck me; I never realized how different everyone is, but yet everyone has the same common denominator. Over time we have learned that America knows how to walk the walk and talk the talk.

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MONTGOMERY COUNTY BLITZ AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Engagement, DWF, Brand

Divided We Fail was well represented in Montgomery County as residents and AARP members learned about the importance of DWF and election issues. Several successful events attracted residents to learn more about DWF. Women voters from Montgomery County attended an AARP forum designed to focus on the top issues of concern for Pennsylvania women voters and an array of other activities to highlight DWF actions.

Candidates for the 17th State Senate District fielded questions on a range of issues including property tax, health care and financial security during a candidates' forum at the PALM Senior Center in Ardmore attended by over 150 Pennsylvanians. AARP Pennsylvania sponsored the forum in an effort to help Montgomery County voters make informed decisions on Election Day. The forum gave candidates Daylin Leach (D) and Lance Rogers (R) an opportunity to inform voters of their positions on important AARP campaign concerns: affordable healthcare and financial security.

Montgomery County Blitz – State Senate Debate Forum

Bill Bogdan, Bucks County Lead Volunteer & AARP Chapter Member I felt very encouraged by our AARP Divided We Fail efforts. I see advancement in the community and organization. I feel that the idea of creating a network of volunteers is wonderful and one that I truly love. I am glad to see how DWF has engaged our volunteer base.

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EAST MEETS WEST AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Engagement, Diversity, DWF, Brand

An event to promote diversity and cooperation with the Asian community was held in Malvern. Approximately 175 Pennsylvanians, mostly of Asian ancestry, were in attendance. Skip Voluntad, AARP Executive Council and Stella Hyde, AARP Pennsylvania State President, gave a brief overview on the challenges that millions of families face with health care and financial security. This event was an important beginning as part of AARP Pennsylvania’s diversity plan to reach out to the Asian community.

Montgomery County Blitz – East Meets West Event.

WOMEN AS DECISION MAKERS FORUM

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Diversity, DWF, Brand Women voters attended an AARP forum at the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, designed to focus on the top issues of concern for Pennsylvania women voters: healthcare and financial security. While our economy becomes a daunting reality for thousands of Pennsylvanians, older women have emerged as an influential group of voters known as

Skip Voluntad, Philadelphia, Executive Council Member I thoroughly enjoyed the East Meets West event. There was a great turn out of Asian as well as non-Asian guests. I had a great time speaking to people and managed to receive DWF pledge cards. Most importantly I felt that the topics that were raised were very well thought out and very well received. It was a great pleasure to leave the event that evening feeling that there were going to be some true advances made in the areas of both health care and financial security for seniors. It was just an overall wonderful and inspiring event. I was incredibly satisfied with everything.

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‘swing voters’. The forum was moderated by CBS 3 Anchor Angela Russell, and featured an expert panel including: Barbara Kennelly, President/CEO of National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare; Ivonne Gutiérrez Bucher , Pennsylvania Governor’s Office; Terry Schooley, Delaware House of Representatives 23rd District; and Estella Hyde, AARP Pennsylvania State President.

Montgomery County Blitz – Women As Decision Makers Forum.

DIVIDED WE FAIL DEBATE WATCH PARTY

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Engagement, DWF, Brand The southeast region hosted three debate watch programs that engaged over 300 volunteers and AARP members who shared their 2008 election experiences and future accountability for the President-Elect and his policies on affordable health care and

Barbara Kates, Montgomery County Volunteer & Team Member When I attended the Women as Decision Makers forum at the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church I was thrilled and excited to see the great diversity of the attendees. The group of very interactive individuals created a wonderful atmosphere. The guests were very involved with conversation and continued sharing stories even after the conversation was over. Finally, I was impressed with the knowledge that was passed on by the guest speakers/ panelist and the visitors who attended the meeting itself. Having a chance to speak with participants who attended, I realized how beneficial this meeting was and how we would love to have more like this in the future.

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financial security. Members and volunteers were engaged and enthusiastic on the future of DWF for the association. CREATE THE GOOD – COMING OF AGE

AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement, Diversity The state office continued its successful partnership with Coming of Age in the fourth quarter. To promote 50+ civic engagement through faith-based initiatives in the city of brotherly love, Coming of Age, AARP and the Mayor’s Office of Faith Based Initiatives hosted a conference for faith-based community organizers of over 140 in attendance to share community building strategies and valuable practices to engage the 50+ population. The conference sessions focused on a range of strategic community building approaches, including bridging the gap between young and old and crafting compelling volunteer opportunities in congregations and communities.

SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY DWF BLITZ

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Engagement, DWF, Brand The counties of Union, Snyder, Northumberland, and Montour form the Upper Susquehanna River Valley. It was this four county area that served as a DWF backdrop to spread our message along this rural portion of the expansive 10th Congressional District. AARP collected over 800 pledges at a variety of fun and engaging opportunities during the multi-day effort. Beginning with a presence at the always crowded Farmers’ Market in Lewisburg, to a 50th Anniversary celebration with music in Huffnagel Park, AARP had significant earned media exposure in this largely rural area with multiple placements. AARP built on its relationship with the Central Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce to leverage two of the largest employers in the region, Evangelical Hospital and Con Agra Foods, to open their doors to employees to hear the DWF message. The Susquehanna Valley Young Professionals provided an intergenerational context for messaging the financial and health security issues to a younger population. Our efforts and presence were highlighted at the Sunbury River Festival and Montour-Delong Fair where residents were able to get their photos taken with the Presidential candidates and meet CHAMP, the DWF mascot, in between spins at the prize wheel.

Marian Lewis, Philadelphia Volunteer & Chapter President All of the Divided We Fail events I had the privilege to attend were spectacular. The number of guests were always far beyond expectation. Everyone was very eager and excited to be a part of the crowd and always showed much enthusiasm as they thoroughly participated and were eager to learn about AARP’s issues.

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Volunteer Doug Dockey mans the Prize Wheel at the Sunbury River Festival

HEALTH CARE REFORM

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact AARP Pennsylvania, as part of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, joined in a press conference on September 17, 2008 at the state house to reinforce the importance of action on pending health care legislation in the Pennsylvania Senate. The House passed health care reform legislation that is supported by the Governor. The Pennsylvania Senate, however, failed to act on health care reform legislation before adjourning for the

Douglas Dockey, Dauphin County Volunteer A "blitz" held at the Landis Valley Farm Museum was very informative and productive for the approximately 175 PA AARP members who attended a picnic in the barn and to see the many attractions at this historic and educational site. At our blitz held at the Sunbury River Festival, the PA AARP booth staff members and volunteers were busy answering questions from passers-by about the Divided We Fail campaign. Some festival visitors had seen a large DWF billboard on a truck driving through local communities. Others had seen DWF posters placed around downtown Sunbury or enjoyed hot drinks wrapped in DWF sleeves or read DWF coasters given to local restaurants. Some people said they had received a DWF flyer on the door knob at their home. Yes, this truly was a "blitz." The word was out!

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year. AARP will continue its efforts at the state level to advance legislation to guarantee health security for all Pennsylvanians when the new session of the General Assembly convenes in January. ELECTRIC DE-REGULATION SYMPOSIUM

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact AARP Pennsylvania brought electric utilities experts from across the nation together to discuss the impact of Pennsylvania’s electric de-regulation law on consumers and businesses at a symposium held on September 23. The symposium featured keynote speaker Marilyn Showalter, former Chair of the Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission and currently executive director of Power in The Public Interest, and Pennsylvania Consumer Advocate Sonny Popowsky. Numerous state legislators and their staff attended the event, which focused on the impact that the electric de-regulation and the end of electric rate caps in the coming year will have on Pennsylvania consumers and businesses; this event established the foundation for AARP Pennsylvania’s 2009 Utilities Campaign. LIHEAP & THE STAY WARM PENNSYLVANIA PROGRAM

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact On October 14, AARP staff and volunteers attended meetings held at 7 sites across Pennsylvania to assist in developing strategies to help individuals and families cope with the high costs of heating their homes this winter. An initiative of Governor Rendell, these Stay Warm PA meetings were led by Cabinet Secretaries, and were linked together by video conference for a reporting session hosted by the Governor. During this session, the Governor announced that Pennsylvania had committed to an $87 million increase in LIHEAP funding for this winter, enabling residents with incomes up to 210% of poverty to qualify and increasing the cash assistance grant from $300 to $800, all positions AARP has advocated for. DUBOIS ELECTION FORUM

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, DWF Approximately 100 DuBois area residents attended an AARP-sponsored voters’ forum which brought candidates for the open 5th Congressional District seat and the hotly contested 75th Pennsylvania House District together. Network television affiliates from Altoona and Johnstown, as well as local print media, covered the forum, which was organized by local AARP volunteers, including team leader Don Frye. Since the forum took place, newly-elected 5th District Congressman Glenn Thompson has met with Don Frye to discuss AARP priorities for the 111th Congress. At the meeting Rep-elect Thompson signed the Divided We Fail pledge.

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CONSUMER UNIVERSITY AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement, Member Value

The AARP Consumer Issues Task Force planned, promoted and offered a “Consumer University” in Monroeville. Comprised of a single day’s offering of consumer savvy programming, the program attracted a capacity audience of 200 individuals who were educated by national and state officials ranging from the US Postal Inspection Service, to the PA Association of Weights and Measures and the Pennsylvania Attorney General. Topics were offered in an entertaining, yet enlightening format covering areas such as identify theft and check scams to investment fraud and confusing PA sales tax applications. Attendees were extremely positive in their evaluation of this educational format and requests for repeat performances in other parts of the state will lead to additional offerings.

HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTORS LAW

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact On October 8, the Pennsylvania General Assembly gave final approval to legislation to require home improvement contractors in the Commonwealth to register with the State Attorney General’s office and to give the Attorney General new authority to fight home contractor fraud. AARP Pennsylvania advocated for this issue for more than a dozen years, working with numerous sponsors to craft a bill which could be passed by both Houses and signed into law by the Governor. The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office, another strong supporter of the legislation, has reported that complaints about home improvement contractors ranked in the top five of all complaints from older Pennsylvanians received by the Consumer Protection division. This new law will allow consumers to have confidence that they are protected from fraudulent actions when working with registered home improvement contractors. MONEY MATTERS

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Value AARP and the Pennsylvania Securities Commission teamed up to offer “Money Matters”, a free public seminar dedicated to delivering quality, non-commercial investor education. The program, offered in three different parts of the state, Lancaster, Harrisburg and State College, was designed for individuals at all levels of investment

Don Frye, Clearfield County Volunteer “This is one of the greatest programs that AARP has offered. The speakers for the AARP Consumer University were excellent. Everyone in AARP should have the benefit of hearing this information. In fact, I’m going to see whether AARP can come out to DuBois to offer this same program to our folks. It was well organized and everyone walked away with something useful to protect their savings.”

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knowledge and all stages of their lives. The program led people through a range of practical tips such as investing through life’s stages, suggestions on sound retirement planning, as well as getting the most out of your financial advisor and avoiding investor fraud. Individuals benefited from having the hosts of the Money Track Public TV series on hand to emcee the event, receiving a free written background report on their respective broker/investment advisor, as well as walking away with a wealth of free information from AARP, top securities officials, and Kiplinger booklets. The program series attracted over 350 attendees who were committed to having nothing stand in the way of their financial security.

Steve Irwin, Commissioner, PA Securities Commission, opens up the Money Matters

session in Harrisburg

Soon to be member Betty Kobar: “I’m so glad I attended the Money Matters event. By far the most information ever publicly shared and gained regarding this topic – and I’m 48 years old! I feel so much more confident about planning and what choices to make afterwards. A friend gave me an advisor referral and has been hounding me to go see him. I had him checked out here and there was abundant info on the print-out. I am now convinced not to see this individual and I even want to share the info with the friend who uses him. Very interesting indeed.”

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Consumer/Investigative Reporter and Co-Anchor Brian Roche emceed the Money

Matters event in Lancaster as volunteers Rick Saunders and Len Bach listen attentively. ELECTIONS RETURN WATCH PARTY – NORTHEAST PA

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, DWF, Brand On Tuesday, November 4, Pennsylvania Divided We Fail and the Political Science Department of Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA hosted a 2008 Elections Returns Watch Party at Stark Learning Center on the Wilkes campus. Over seventy-five Wilkes students filtered through lecture hall 101 to watch the returns on a 12’X12’ screen and share pizza, soda and political rhetoric with Professor Thomas Baldino of Wilkes University and staff of AARP Pennsylvania. Over 90 percent of the students who attended shared that they had cast their votes that day in the Presidential Election of 2008. The Divided We Fail message was well received by the students and potential 2009 DWF plans include a follow-up event at Wilkes University and inclusion of two neighboring Wilkes-Barre university populations. AARP VOLUNTEER ACTION HELPS PRESERVE PENNSYLVANIA HEALTH CARE WATCHDOG AGENCY

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Brand Pennsylvania volunteers helped secure an important health care victory when Governor Rendell signed an executive order allowing the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PAHC4) to continue operating through June 30. The governor’s decision followed thousands of phone calls, faxes and emails from members statewide throughout November demanding an extension for the agency.

Without further action, the independent, non-partisan watchdog group was set to close at the end of November. PAHC4 is widely recognized for its groundbreaking reports on health care quality and cost, including the nation's first statewide study of infections contracted by patients during hospital stays. This past September, the agency issued

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major reports on hospital heart surgery outcomes and the performance of hospitals in 51 categories of care from abnormal heart beats to strokes.

The governor’s extension gives state legislators time to pass a bill permanently reauthorizing the agency when the General Assembly returns to session in January. DIVIDED WE FAIL – ELECTION COVERAGE

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, DWF AARP community team members in Westmoreland County hosted an election forum for an open State Senate seat in the Greensburg area. The forum was carried live in its entirety by a local radio station and was covered by the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. The AARP Pennsylvania State Office hosted an election issue town hall forum in Indiana County. Over 150 AARP members from a six county area attended to hear from our speakers. The attendee list will be a starting point to reach out to AARP membership concerning volunteer opportunities in their community in this traditionally under-engaged portion of the state.

PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS

AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement The PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS® campaign pairs long-term care residents with visitors who bring them a gift. The goal of the PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS® campaign is to match patients in nursing homes and personal care homes with a gift and visit. The campaign reaches five states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, West Virginia and Tennessee. Now in its 25th season, the campaign has brightened the holidays for more than 300,000 patients. The 2008 Presents for Patients project in Pittsburgh consisted of six project sites in three counties. Over 25 chapters and 150 volunteers were engaged in the project through out the year and approximately 1,400 long term care facility residents will be served by the program. Presents for Patients continues to play a key role in the engagement of new AARP volunteers in southwestern Pennsylvania and there is already interest in expanding to a fourth county in 2009.

Lois Watson, Pittsburgh, AARP Chapter Member, Team Member & DWF Volunteer Regarding the DWF program: “response was good. There was no trouble getting our pledge cards signed. The public was very responsive to the idea.”

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Presents for Patients Volunteers

Marian Hershman, Pittsburgh AARP Chapter Member, Team Member, & Tax Aide Volunteer Regarding the chapter leadership conference: “The conference was enlightening and informative. I met a lot of new people and did some great networking with my fellow Allegheny County chapter members. I really liked the guy from New Hampshire.” In 2008, Marian participated for the first time with the Presents for Patients program, recruited by her fellow Tax Aide volunteer and Presents for Patients site chair Bill Campbell. She said the PFP volunteer activity “gave her a warm fuzzy feeling,” and she was “probably the first Jewish person to wear a Santa hat.”

Carol Kinney, Pittsburgh AARP Chapter Member & Team Member Regarding the Presents for Patients program: “I enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the Kane nursing facilities and bring cheer to the residents.”

Mary Hall, Pittsburgh AARP Chapter Member, Team Member & Chair of the Kane Scott Presents for Patients project site Regarding Presents for Patients: “It is the most fulfilling thing we do all year.”

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CONGRESSMEN ENGLISH AND ALTMIRE ADVOCATE AUTO IRA PROPOSAL WITH BUSINESS LEADERS AT AARP TOWN HALL MEETING

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, DWF, Brand Pennsylvania Congressmen Jason Altmire (D-4) and Phil English (R-3) told an audience of local business leaders at an AARP town hall meeting that a proposal to have companies establish automatic payroll deductions to individual retirement accounts (IRA) for employees will increase retirement security for millions of American workers. Representative English was a prime sponsor and Representative Altmire is a co-sponsor of the recently introduced Automatic IRA Act (H.R. 2167) that would require employers without retirement plans to establish automatic payroll deductions to IRAs for their employees. Under the proposal, companies with more than 10 employees that do not offer qualified retirement or pension plans would be required to allow all eligible workers the option to put a portion of their wages into an automatic IRA account through payroll deductions. To offset administrative costs associated with establishing the payroll deduction, small businesses with less than 100 employees would receive a tax credit of up to $250 for the first two years of the program. AARP estimates that 25,500 Pennsylvania employers would be required to take part in the Auto IRA program, helping approximately a million and a half workers statewide save for retirement. ENERGY SAVE

AARP Dashboard – Social Impact, Member Engagement, Diversity Part of our Create The Good initiative, AARP PA, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, participated in several community programs that provided education and information about energy assistance to more than 650 individuals in the Philadelphia region. PENNSYLVANIA GOVERNOR’S CONFERENCE FOR WOMEN

AARP Dashboard – Member Value, Diversity, Brand AARP Pennsylvania State partnered with the 2008 Pennsylvania Governor’s Conference for Women. The conference began with an evening reception hosted by Governor Ed Rendell and was attended by the Pennsylvania State President and a staff representative. AARP spoke one on one with the Governor and members of his administration as well as with local business and community leaders. The state office also participated in a full day of educational lectures and networking opportunities including serving on a healthcare reform public policy session. In addition, the AARP Driver Safety Program hosted an informational booth at the conference with the goal of reaching new women volunteers for the program.

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WISE WALK PROGRAM

AARP Dashboard - Member Engagement, Member Value The Wise Walk Partnership between AARP, the Allegheny County Library Association and the Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield PALS (People Able to Lend Support) Program kicked off its second pedometer 10 week walking session of the year. Each session continues to add additional library sites and participants. Actual statistics will be available by year’s end. The partnership between the Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA), the Highmark People Able to Lend Support (PALS) Program, and AARP PA has lead to a successful series of community walking programs targeting older adults across Allegheny County. This partnership called Wise Walk is in its second year of implementation and the number of participants and participating libraries continues to grow. This past spring, twelve local libraries hosted Wise Walk programs for adults age 50 and up. The program offered participants incentives including the step counter, participant walking guide and co-branded tee shirts. Participants made weekly visits to their local library to report their steps. While there, they discovered great resources, and participated in informational healthy aging sessions/programs that included a healthy snack. Sessions/programs included:

Blood pressure screenings Program presented by the University of Pittsburgh Center for Healthy Aging

called the 10 Keys to Healthy Aging Silver Sneakers stretching demonstrations, and Laughter Yoga Fitness workshop, among others

One program was hosted by the Downtown & Business location of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. The participants included both retirees and downtown office workers who participated in sessions/programs held during their lunch break. Wise Walkers at Downtown & Business averaged 1.2 million steps per week. One walker was 88 years old and averaged 100,000 steps per week! Twelve libraries reported having 307 walkers. Of those, 170 continue to actively participate in the Wise Walk by reporting back steps and/or attending weekly walks. These 12 libraries had an average of about 8 participants for weekly walks. Eleven libraries have reported their total steps for the 10 week period to be 60,426,259. This

Marge Davis Harding, Butler County AARP Team Member Regarding her team’s activities in 2008, noted that “The Beaver Blitz was a success, and put our team in better contact with the people of that county.” Marge also commented on the “success of the team’s health fair activities and the DWF campaign.” Marge is “personally looking forward to getting busy on the rate cap issue in 2009. This issue is a major challenge and AARP needs to be leading the way with public support.”

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equals 30,213 miles. For comparison, the circumference of the earth at the equator is 24,901.55 miles.

The success of the Wise Walk programs has sparked the interest of additional ACLA member libraries. Currently there are ten new libraries interested in implementing a fall walking program and nine libraries that would like to continue with a second fall session. ONLINE COMMUNICATIONS PROJECTS

AARP Dashboard – Social Impact, Member Engagement, Member Value, DWF, Brand Pennsylvania developed an advocacy action webpage for contact with local legislators about health care reform, resulting in over 65,000 emails successfully sent and 10,000 opened (10.95% open rate). The innovative outreach resulted in 431 people contacting 228 legislators about health care reform in PA. The state office is also using our web presence for the fight on utilities. An advocacy email alert was sent statewide urging our grassroots database to contact Governor Rendell and other legislators about skyrocketing electric prices. As a result, over 1,000 emails and phone calls were made to PA legislators to address utility issues. Web practices are also aiding in our coalition building efforts. An advocacy action webpage was created for the need to reauthorize the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4). As a result of the online interaction, 590 messages to Governor Rendell were received on behalf of keeping PHC4 in existence. Virtual voter guides were produced and posted on the internet for all 253 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania General Assembly and several key federal races. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CAPACITY BUILDING

AARP Dashboard - Social Impact, Member Value In November, twenty-five volunteers and staff participated in the second of a series of work sessions to redefine the volunteer structure of AARP Pennsylvania and target the development of volunteer capacity at the Congressional District Level. Teams of volunteers and staff worked in small groups reporting on work accomplished since the initial meeting of the group on July 1 and designed components of the proposed volunteer structure. A Task Force of volunteers and staff will take the work products of the meeting and finalize the new structure with a target date of completion on March 1, 2009.

The Wise Walk libraries walked more than the circumference of the earth! This is more than 5 round trips across the United States!

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DRIVER SAFETY AARP Dashboard - Member Value

During the fourth quarter of 2008 (October, November, & December) the Driver Safety Program in Pennsylvania was active with a busy schedule of classes across the state. Coordinators, Trainers and Marketing Specialists met for the annual state meeting, discussing the 2990 agenda. Discussions included an increase in fee for non-member participants to $14, and instituting a new goal of 32,000 class participants and 1,500 classes. ANDRUS AWARD EVENT

AARP Dashboard – Member Engagement, Member Value, Brand Western PA volunteer Barbara Bush was recognized by over two hundred of her peers at an award presentation this past fall as the 2008 Andrus Award recipient for Community Service. Bush is recognized for her remarkable service and for the impact she has had on the lives of others and on her community. She has recruited and led the largest community team of AARP volunteers in Pennsylvania and is a long-time volunteer with AARP’s Tax-Aide program that provides free tax preparation assistance for seniors. Bush also headed AARP’s Presents for Patients program in the greater Pittsburgh area that distributed gifts to more than 1,200 long-term care residents over the Christmas holidays. “This award acts as a symbol to members and the public that we can all work together for positive social change,” says AARP Pennsylvania State Director Dick Chevrefils. “Barbara Bush is a tireless volunteer who is dedicated to AARP’s community service, advocacy and educational efforts. Her courage, leadership and commitment to improving her community make her a deserving recipient of this award.” VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT

AARP Dashboard – Member Engagement, Member Value Over 200 hundred AARP Pennsylvania volunteers attended ceremonies that recognized their contributions to others through their volunteer work with AARP Pennsylvania. On this day of recognition, volunteers participated in an array of activities, including lunch and the presentation of certificates of appreciation. AARP Pennsylvania volunteers give of themselves in so many different ways, from advocacy, to education, information sharing and as agents of social change. AARP Pennsylvania is proud of our members who give so much of themselves. CHAPTER LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

AARP Dashboard –Member Value On September 17th, AARP Pennsylvania hosted a chapter leadership conference in Allegheny County. Allegheny County is home to one of the largest concentrations of AARP chapters in the country. The day attracted just over 100 chapter members and

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volunteers representing 30 area chapters who participated in a full day of activities, including the chance to interact with fellow chapter leaders, partaking in presentations on chapter resources and the opportunity for discussion regarding chapter leadership. Invited speakers included National Board Member Rob Romasco, State President Estella Hyde, along with state and national AARP chapter staff experts. The day offered a wonderful opportunity to hear from both AARP presenters as well as from the wealth of leadership found at the local chapter level in Allegheny County. INTERNSHIPS

AARP Dashboard – Member Engagement, DWF Intern, Yasaman Mirafzali, worked from September through December 2008 with the State Office in Philadelphia. She was a senior public health major at Temple University. She had this to say about her AARP sojourn: “Working for AARP has been one of the most exciting and incredible experiences of my life. Throughout my time here, I worked on a variety of things. Our main event was Divided We Fail, to promote health care and financial security. Most of my responsibilities were based on this. I worked on AARP PA State Divided We Fail (DWF) Initiative, assisted with developing programs and compelling workshops that focused on affordable health care and financial security for all as we age.” The Harrisburg office hosted an intern during the fall academic semester. Emily Hall, a senior at Messiah College in Grantham and a native of Mansfield, PA, was assigned a project to survey the needs of AARP chapters in rural areas of Pennsylvania. Emily attended a chapter meeting in Smethport and compiled information from 15 other chapters across the state through telephone conversations and a mail survey. In addition to this project, Emily assisted the office in projects leading up to the 2008 election, including obtaining final information for state voters’ guides and participating in Divided We Fail activities. Post-election, Emily gathered contact information for winning candidates and rescheduled information about the new members of the General Assembly. Emily also assisted in routine office tasks during her stay with our office, for which she was not paid but earned academic credit.

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SUMMARY

The accomplishments of AARP Pennsylvania in 2008 reflect an extraordinary amount of work done by an extraordinary group of people, staff and volunteers working to make a difference in the lives of others. The work of 2008 continued to support the Dashboard of the Association and in turn the State Plan of AARP Pennsylvania. Our primary focus was on Divided We Fail, Social Impact and Member

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Value. During this period, we continued to reinforce and strengthen our partnership with volunteers and reach new and active members. We saw an increase in new volunteers, expanded outreach through the Internet and expanded engagement in on-the-ground activities. We also strengthened our relationships with elected officials, conducting many candidate events and outreach activities. We continued to build our partnership with the national and regional offices of AARP, building a collective force on behalf of people. We were not able to capture all of our work during 2008 in this document but it reflects much of what we accomplished on behalf of our members and people …. what we did, we did for all.