Age Well, the largest Area Agency in Vermont, serving Chittenden, Addison, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties, is celebrating 50 years of service. Established in 1974, our nation’s Area Agencies on Aging were created through the Older Americans Act, a federal law that established authority for grants to states for home and community-based services, research and development projects, and workforce training. A key objective of Age Well and other Area Agencies on Aging is to support older adults in preserving their independence and autonomy.
Over the past 50 years, Age Well—formerly Champlain Valley Agency on Aging (CVAA)—has provided essential support to thousands of older adults through services such as Meals on Wheels, case management, caregiver support, community meals and wellness programs, a Helpline, Medicare counseling, and more.
From 1974 to 2024, Age Well has delivered over 11 million meals, all designed to help older adults live independently in their chosen communities.
“As we celebrate Age Well’s 50th anniversary, we reflect with immense pride on our journey of serving older adults in our community. This milestone is not only a testament to the dedication and compassion of our team and volunteers but also a celebration of the countless lives we have touched over the past five decades,” said Jane Catton, CEO of Age Well.
Through investment in community outreach, volunteer recruitment, and business development, Age Well has been able to reduce service duplication and offer a wide range of evidence-based programs that ensure effective health outcomes. As of 2024, Age Well maintains a volunteer force of over 1,000 members, delivers over 300,000 Meals on Wheels, and answers over 14,000 calls made to the Helpline annually.
“Looking ahead, we are more committed than ever to embracing aging as a privilege, not a challenge,” continued Catton. “Our mission remains steadfast: to provide unwavering support and guidance to empower our community as we navigate the next 50 years. We are excited to continue our work with optimism and dedication, ensuring that every Vermonter can age with confidence and grace. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. We look forward to celebrating this significant achievement with you and envisioning a bright future together.”
Age Well is hosting a 50th Celebration at the Old Lantern, in Charlotte, VT on September 26, 2024, to commemorate fifty years of serving Older Vermonters. The evening will include fantastic fare by Backyard Bistro; entertainment by magician, Dr. Steve Taubman; live music from folk artist Nick Carter; and a silent auction. Guest of Honor Madeleine Kunin will be recognized.
To learn more about the 50th Celebration, buy tickets, or participate in our silent auction, please visit: https://www.agewellvt.org/giving-back/50th-celebration/
About Age Well
Age Well is a nonprofit organization that has served Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties since 1974 as a member of Vermont’s Area Agencies on Aging. Age Well provides services and support to allow Older Adults to stay independent, and remain healthy at home, where they want to be. Age Well integrates community resources, health services and wellness programs to enhance and improve quality of life and reduces barriers by providing access to healthy meals, care, and community resources.
Delivered by staff members and 1,000+ volunteers, services are designed to meet the diverse needs of clients, their families, and caregivers. Age Well does not charge for services provided but relies on donations and encourages clients to contribute if they are able to do so.
To learn more about Age Well, please visit: https://www.agewellvt.org
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