GREENE COUNTY — In April 1963, President John F. Kennedy designated the  month of May as Senior Citizens Month. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter renamed the observance  Older Americans Month. The Administration on Aging, part of the Administration for Community  Living, has announced the 2026 theme, “Champion Your Health.” 

The 2026 theme encourages older adults to take an active role in managing their health, accessing  preventative care, and making informal decisions about their wellness. It highlights evidence based approaches, self-management strategies, the role of caregivers, and community partnerships  that empower individuals to lead healthy lives. The month serves to recognize the achievements  and experiences of older Americans while promoting activities that support healthy aging.  

In recognition of Older Americans Month, the Greene County Legislature proclaims May as  Greene County Older Americans Month, expressing appreciation for the commitment and  valuable service of outstanding senior citizens throughout the county. 

Each year, the Advisory Council to the Greene County Department for the Aging (Human  Services) conducts a search for local senior citizens to be recognized for their dedication and hard  work in making their communities better places to live while supporting healthy aging. All  nominees are honored by Greene County Legislature for their significant contributions. 

For 2026, Carol Pfister of Athens has been named Senior Citizen of the Year, and Kathleen Callan of East Durham will receive the Outstanding Contribution by a Senior Citizen Award.  In addition, Gordon Mosher of Athens and Joyce Andressen of Catskill will be recognized as  nominees for their service and dedication. 

In May, Carol and Kathleen will be recognized at the Greene County Legislature meeting in  addition to participating in the 2026 Older New Yorkers Day celebration in Albany on May 26th,  at The Crown Plaza Hotel-Desmond.  

In addition, all our nominees will be our guests of honor at the Greene County Senior Citizen Day  Celebration on September 4th at the Historic Catskill Point where we will celebrate all seniors  across the county and the Greene County Office for the Aging’s 50th Anniversary.  

For more information about Older Americans Month or upcoming events from Greene County  Department of Human Services, please follow us on Facebook, view our events on our website at  https://greenecountyny.gov/events-calendar-for-aging-services/ Events Calendar for Aging  Services | Greene County, New York or contact the department at (518)719-3555 or email  humanservices@greenecountyny.gov