Kiama Council has added its support to a world without ageism, signing up to the EveryAGE Counts campaign.
Mayor Neil Reilly today, on behalf of Council, signed the pledge to stand for a world where all people of all ages are valued and respected and their contributions are acknowledged.
"Our community, more than most, has been at the forefront of supporting and including our older colleagues, neighbours, team-mates, family members and friends in our day-to-day lives and the public life of our towns and villages," Cr Reilly said.
"Here we have the highest percentage of residents in NSW in the 85 plus bracket, and have long appreciated the experience, skills and community-spirit our seniors have to offer and provide every day."
Cr Reilly said the huge rate of volunteerism in our region was one example of the value of this often-overlooked part of our communities.
"Kiama has a great story about inclusion of people at all ages through our various initiatives such as our Blue Haven volunteers and Dementia Advisory Group through to the Intergenerational Munch Out program."
"These examples are not tokenistic and have produced real results. We also acknowledge the invaluable service our Blue Haven volunteers provide through the community transport service, which would not be possible without their efforts."
"One of the worst things about ageism is it denies society an enormous range of benefits that can flow, economically and socially, from the full participation of older people."
"Further, programs such as Intergenerational Munch Out, have physically and socially bridged the gap between our older and younger people through the simple task of preparing and sharing fresh and healthy meals."
"But we can always do more, which is why Kiama Council is excited to be involved in the EveryAGE Counts initiative."
The EveryAGE Counts campaign aims to set strong, new foundations for current and future generations to age well.
