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Advocacy isn’t self-serving. Advocacy is a collective effort showing “public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy”. At its heart, advocacy shines a light on important issues affecting community members and works to improve quality of life for everyone, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Advocacy is a critical tool that elevates community members’ voices and drives change through collective action.

Advocates for Senior Issues (AFSI) is a nonpartisan group, affiliated with the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, where older adults gather monthly to listen, learn, and build community together. Members come from diverse ages, backgrounds, and affiliations, but share one common goal: voicing the concerns of older adults and advancing the well-being of seniors across West Michigan.

Through the years, AFSI members have championed essential priorities such as protecting the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver, which helps individuals remain in their homes instead of costly nursing facilities; defending funding for the Older Americans Act, which supports nutrition, transportation, and caregiver services; and strengthening the Long Term Care Ombudsman program, which safeguards the rights of nursing home residents. These are examples of advocacy in action, where seniors and community members come together to protect programs that directly impact lives.

AFSI kicks off its first meeting of the year on September 19th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Prince Conference Center. Meetings are held on the third Friday of each month, except for July, August, and December. At each meeting, there is a legislative guest speaker in attendance—including State Senators and Representatives and local County Commissioners, among others. The second half then features an educational presentation. Topics covered span from elder abuse and scams to senior driving, to Medicare and Medicaid. These gatherings are not only a space for learning and dialogue but also for empowerment t, giving seniors the chance to ask questions, share stories, and speak directly to legislators about important issues.

Advocacy takes many forms: contacting legislators, attending hearings, submitting a testimony, or even showing up at a parade to share a message. What matters most is that advocacy with AFSI remains nonpartisan, collective, and inclusive. It ensures that seniors’ voices are heard, and their needs are prioritized.

Take a step towards making a difference and join us on September 19 at the Prince Conference Center from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm! Guest speakers include Representative Stephen Wooden and Maureen McKenzie, from Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. AFSI is open to the public and free to attend for first-time guests. Yearly membership fees are $30 for individuals and $45 for couples; payment can be made at www.aaawm.org/afsi. Together, we can stand up for seniors and continue to protect vital programs and services that make aging in place possible. Advocacy is for everyone.

If you’d like to be a sponsor for the Advocates for Senior Issues (AFSI), visit www.aaawm.org/become-a-sponsor-afsi. With over 300 AFSI members, and a reach of over 10,000 individuals, sponsors have the opportunity to grow their audience and increase their reach in West Michigan. Sponsors' support helps us build a stronger, more connected community where everyone can age with purpose and dignity.