To the Editor:
The Up-Island Council on Aging (UICOA) board was reconfigured in 2023, with three appointed members from each up-Island town. A strategic planning subcommittee was formed at the first meeting. The board engaged the Gerontology Institute at UMass Boston in 2024 to conduct a community assessment. The staff and board held a daylong retreat to identify challenges and opportunities, and define the UICOA’s vision. We have been working with Bethany Hammond, the director of the UICOA, on developing a three-year strategic plan for the Council on Aging that can meet not just the present needs of our seniors and their families, but also the future needs of our communities.
One of the first goals was to improve transportation for our seniors. To that end, Bethany successfully applied for a Massachusetts Department of Transportation grant for a mobility manager, and the use of a handicapped-accessible van for the council.
This month, West Tisbury approved a warrant article to fund minor changes to Howes House to create a safer, more welcoming environment, and make staff spaces more accessible to the public.
Because of the importance of the strategic plan, we will be seeking public input in each of the towns; we look forward to hearing your ideas and concerns.
Beth Kramer
West Tisbury UICOA representative