Dear Friends,
At Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP, we’ve embraced the motto “Aging with Attitude™” to encapsulate the lasting impact we aim to achieve through our programs. Approaching our 20th year, we are thrilled to see our organization expanding with the same vigor, and we are incredibly excited about what lies ahead.
Over the past year, OATS has made significant strides toward our strategic goals for 2023: expanding our physical presence, reaching larger audiences, enhancing customer experience, and challenging outdated perceptions of aging.
Key accomplishments include:
- Opening a new Senior Planet center in Miami, the fourth nationwide, providing technology assistance and classes in a modern, spacious facility with state-of-the-art equipment – all free of charge.
- Delivering over 460,000 training opportunities through our flagship program Senior Planet, with classes now offered in multiple languages including English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Russian.
- Growing seniorplanet.org to reach over 1.5 million users annually, offering live online classes, tech tip videos, and over 200 original pieces of editorial content for older readers.
- Sponsoring over 100 licensed partners and introducing 62 new, top-of-the-line programs, and being recognized for Innovation and Excellence in Communications by the 29th Annual Communicator Awards.
- Playing a role in influencing the federal government’s launch of the Affordable Connectivity Program to provide discounted internet service to low-income Americans.
In collaboration with AARP State Offices, our work around digital equity continues to help older adults learn about low-cost internet options to stay connected, and we provide a free informational hotline for support (1-888-713-3495).
As we approach our 20th anniversary, we are committed to empowering older adults through digital inclusion and look forward to another year of transformative impact. Your support is crucial, and we welcome any donation to continue delivering our free, impactful programs.
Here’s to a healthy, secure, and connected new year!
Warmest regards,
Tom Kamber
Executive Director, Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP
Tom Kamber is the executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) and Senior Planet from AARP. He is a leading expert on aging and technology and is regularly featured in national media.
