Embed Lifelong Communities within Municipal Structure

This can take several different forms:

• Lifelong Community or Age-Friendly commitee is appointed as a standing committee 

• Lifelong or Age-Friendly Committee works with other town committees 

• Lifelong or Age-Friendly Committee Presents of regular updates to municipal officials

• Municipal officials participate in the Lifelong or Age-Friendly Committee work 

These approaches have benefits for ensuring Lifelong Community goals will be carried into the future. For example, Age-Friendly Eliot was tasked by the town manager with developing a property tax abatement program and reviewing Accessory  Dwelling Unit requirements. Their recommendations were accepted by town officials and passed at town meeting. As an appointed committee that earned the trust and respect of the town manager and elected officials, Age-Friendly Eliot was able to influence policy for generations to come. 

Emphasize All Ages in Lifelong Communities

From birth to 120+,the Lifelong Community approach reflects the full community. Everyone can relate and be excited. For example, during their assessment, Age-Friendly Georgetown asked school children how the community could be more age-inclusive and has since developed programs for all ages, such as the Georgetown Trekkers, a summer hiking challenge customized for different ages. 

Plan for Leadership Succession

Change happens. Lifelong Community teams that strategically plan for transitions on the core team are better prepared when a leader steps away. 

• Co-Chair Model. Collaborative leadership models reduce the workload, improves perspective, and ease changes when people come and go. Several communities, including Age-Friendly South Portland, have adopted a co-chair model. Other groups, such as Age-Friendly Windham, have an official chair but also depend on input from a core leadership team of 3 people. If someone has to step away, there is at least one person ready to continue in a leadership position. 

• Recruiting for needed skills. A diverse leadership team, with members from different backgrounds and skillsets is key for your Lifelong Community to expand its scope and reach. For example, China for a Lifetime recruits specific people to the leadership team who have needed skills.