NEWS RELEASE
April 7, 2026
Chemung County Department of Aging & Long-Term Care Director Beth Stranges cordially invites you to attend and cover the following events during Older Americans Month:
WHAT: Older Americans Month Volunteer Recognition Celebration
WHEN: Friday, May 1, 2026
TIME: 1:30 PM (Doors open at 1 PM)
WHERE: New Beginnings United Methodist Church, 300 East Miller St., Elmira, NY
Celebrated every May, Older Americans Month (OAM) is led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL). Established in 1963, OAM is a time to recognize older Americans' contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving older adults in our communities.
This year's theme, "Champion Your Health," focuses on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. It encourages older adults to take an active role in their health — advocating for themselves, accessing preventive care, and making informed decisions that support independence.
The Chemung County Department of Aging and Long Term Care will celebrate Older Americans Month by presenting the 2026 Distinguished Volunteers of the Year Awards, and with the reading of a proclamation by Chemung County Executive Chris Moss designating May as Older Americans Month in Chemung County.
The Distinguished Volunteer of the Year Awards will be presented to six (6) Chemung County residents who are 60 years of age or older and were nominated by their peers for their ongoing devotion of time and talent to make a great impact on others, without pay or compensation. We will also recognize and celebrate ALL Chemung Volunteers for their invaluable contributions, as well as our newly designated age-friendly businesses.
WHAT: 35th Anniversary – Chemung County Senior Games
WHEN: May 16th through June 18th
TIME: Varies by Games
WHERE: Locations are throughout Chemung County
The Chemung County Senior Games celebrate and showcase the vibrant, active lifestyles of adults aged 50 and older. Many participants maintain regular exercise routines, while some train diligently throughout the year for a specific sport. Through strong partnerships with health promotion and education organizations, the Games promote lifelong wellness by encouraging physical activity, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and a positive, healthy approach to living. There are only three counties in all of NYS that host local games like these!
A special Field Day celebration, featuring an Information Fair and Picnic, is scheduled for Thursday, June 18, at the scenic Harris Hill Youth Camp. This exciting event is open to all registered Senior Games participants. Enjoy a variety of "Just for Fun" activities, including putt-putt billiards, cornhole, miniature golf, and more. In addition, over 20 agencies will be on hand to share valuable resources at a comprehensive health and wellness information fair. And of course, savor a delicious picnic lunch! Professional golfer Joey Sindelar will be attending to celebrate this milestone as our special guest. A schedule of games and locations is attached.
WHAT: Older Americans Month “A Day to Remember” Senior Prom Celebration
WHEN: Thursday, May 21, 2026
TIME: 11:00 AM
WHERE: Notre Dame High School, 1400 Maple Avenue, Elmira, NY
On May 21, we're Championing Your Health! We are teaming up with Notre Dame High School's Class of 2027 for “A Day to Remember” – a Senior Prom Celebration just for our amazing older adults in the community! There will be music, dancing, and All Things Prom! Greg Olsen, NYS Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) Director & Rebecca Preve, Executive Director of the Association on Aging in New York, will be in
attendance. They are excited to see the Department of Aging continue to work alongside community partners to create intergenerational events in Chemung County. A delicious lunch will be prepared and provided to all attendees by Notre Dame students.
Celebrating Older Americans Month: Champion Your Health
This Older Americans Month, communities and individuals alike can take steps to champion health and advance healthy aging.
How can community groups, businesses, and organizations mark OAM?
- Promote OAM through newsletters, meetings, and social media channels.
- Invite community members to share stories and reflections using #ChampionYourHealth.
- Highlight practical tips and trusted resources that support prevention and healthy aging.
- Elevate local programs and events that help older adults stay healthy, active, and engaged.
How can individuals take charge of their health at every age?
- Stay up to date on preventive care and screenings.
- Build and maintain social connections that support emotional well-being.
- Choose nutritious, minimally processed foods.
- Incorporate regular physical activity to maintain strength and mobility.
- Practice daily habits that support mental health and resilience.
Please contact Beth Stranges in the Department of Aging at (607) 737-5520 for more information.
Christopher J. Moss
Chemung County Executive