Attendees at the anniversary event at the Anchorage Senior Activities Center enjoyed lunch, trivia, and prizes, while learning about Social Security.
This August, AARP Alaska celebrated the 90th Anniversary of the Social Security Act being signed. Since being enacted on August 14, 1935, Social Security has supported a secure retirement for millions of Americans, helping them to retire and age with dignity. In its 90 years, Social Security has never missed a payment, which allows Americans to reap the benefits of their hard work with certainty.
Honoring a milestone statewide
To celebrate, AARP Alaska kicked off a series of Social Security events statewide, along with other states. Three Social Security parties were put on at Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center, Anchorage Senior Activity Center, and Wasilla Area Seniors. Members of Congress sent videos to be played at the beginning of each event, followed by a trivia game on Social Security and the year 1935 with prizes. Attendees over the age of 90 also received a special prize. Seniors were asked to sign large Social Security card stickers and share what Social Security means for them, adding them to an oversized card anniversary card, which was taken to events as a visual storytelling tool and photo opportunity. Participants left with a greater knowledge of Social Security and what it does thanks to a fun social event.
To promote statewide participation in the anniversary, AARP Alaska created a "Social Security Toolkit" that was sent to senior centers and hosts across the state. The kit included trivia questions, prizes, member of Congress videos, "back in 1935" placemats, and other resources to help increase engagement and education. Additionally, the giant Social Security card, with all its stickers, was taken to the Alaska State Fair, AARP Anchorage Fall Financial Fitness Fair, and the Alaska Federation of Natives Conference.
The need for protection
Social Security is a cornerstone of financial security for many Americans. According to AARP, more than one in five Americans receive Social Security. In Alaska, 115,096 residents receive Social Security, which injects $2.3 billion into the state's economy each year. Without these payments, more than 28% of Alaskans aged 65 and over would be living in poverty. Social Security is crucial for Alaskans to be able to age with confidence and certainty both now and in the future.
Since Social Security is a pay-as-you-go system; it's funded by payroll taxes. However, the most recent Social Security's Trustees' Report has forecasted that the surplus will run out in 2035. This will cause a 20% reduction in Social Security payments nationally. While Congress reformed this program in 1983, it must step up again to ensure that older Americans receive the payments they need.
AARP is leading the charge to ensure beneficiaries receive full benefits and to guarantee access to customer service.
Join the fight to protect Social Security
Visit aarp.org/social-security for more information.
