Tue Unirep States VirGIN ISLANDS OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE Charlotte Amalie, V.1. 00802 340-774-0001 OLDER AMERICANS MONTH: AGE OUT LOUD RHEEKAHHARERAEEE BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS REKHHEEKRERAEEE A PROCLAMATION The United States Virgin Islands includes older Americans who richly contributed to our Nation as well as to our territory. They have fortified our country, and helped shape our world. They had served in the United States Military, fighting for our freedom. They had enriched our islands by becoming entrepreneurs providing a functioning economy. They raised strong families and strengthened our communities. This month, we celebrate the contributions and sacrifices of our elders, and we offer our renewed gratitude and support. We acknowledge that what it means “to age” has changed—for the better. With decades of experience and unwavering enthusiasm, Older Americans of the United States Virgin Islands continue to uplift our neighborhoods, offer perspective on pressing challenges, and serve as role models to our next generation, proving that they never stop making a difference or giving back. This year’s Older Americans Month theme, Age Out Loud is intended to give aging a new voice — one that reflects what today’s older adults have to say about aging. The United States Virgin Islands is committed to supporting older adults as they take charge of their health, explore new opportunities activities, and focus on independence. Older Americans expect to continue to live their lives to the fullest by taking charge, striving for wellness, and advocating for themselves and others. The month of May will amplify the many voices of older Americans and raise awareness of vital aging issues across the country. More than ever before, older Americans are working longer, trying new things, and engaging in their communities. Proclamation — Older Americans Month: Age Out Loud Page 2 During 2017 Older Americans Month, we pay tribute to our parents, grandparents, friends, neighbors, and every senior near to our hearts. We strive to build a bright future on the strong foundation they have laid for us and the next generation. NOW, THEREFORE, |, Kenneth E. Mapp, Governor of the Virgin Islands of the United States, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Revised Organic Act of 1954, as amended, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2017, as Older Americans Month: Age Out Loud in the United States Virgin Islands. I call upon the people of the Virgin Islands to join me in helping to protect our Older Americans/Senior Citizens. I extend great appreciation to our social workers and all those professionals who work on behalf of the Older Americans/Senior Citizens of the Virgin Islands. IN WITNESS, WHEREOF, | have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States to be affixed at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, this s"* day of April, 2017, A.D. AQ. Kenneth E. Mapp Governor Attest: Osbert E. Potter Lieutenant Governor [2]