Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Every year since 1963, May has been a month to appreciate and celebrate the vitality and aspirations of older adults and their contributions to our communities. The theme for Older Americans Month 2013, "Unleash the Power of Age," has never been more fitting. Older Americans are productive, active and influential members of society, sharing essential talents, wisdom and life experience with people in their communities.

Bay Aging has over 800 fabulous, dedicated people 55 and older who lend their time to our organization. These folks deliver nutritious meals to the homebound frail and seniors, carry people to medical appointments and clinics for treatments, provide friendly visits and light assistance in retirement and senior communities, provide support activities in senior centers and adult day care centers, help seniors and low-income families file taxes and more. Last year, seniors donated 54,194 hours of service through Bay Aging, a $1,180,886 value t...