(Montpelier, Vt.) – Governor Jim Douglas and Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie today issued a request for nominations for Vermont’s second annual Healthy Aging Awards.
These awards have been developed by the Governor’s Commission on Healthy Aging—chaired by Lt. Governor Dubie—and are part of a broader initiative to promote the well-being of older Vermonters and the value of healthy aging.

“Poor health, isolation and loss of productivity are not inevitable consequences of aging. Many Vermonters in their 70’s, 80’s and 90’s enjoy independent, active living and contribute significantly to their communities,” Governor Douglas said. These awards recognize those individuals and organizations which demonstrate the ideals of Healthy Aging,” said Governor Douglas.

Lt. Governor Dubie said nominations would be accepted in eight different categories: Vigor and Vitality; Love of Learning; Community Involvement; Bridging the Generations; Against the Odds; Organizational Champion; Program Champion; and Service Champion.

“By publicly recognizing older Vermonters, businesses and organizations that support healthy aging, the Commission and Governor seek to change the way people think about older Vermonters and their contributions to our communities,” Lt. Governor Dubie said. “Older Vermonters demonstrate extraordinary physical and mental capabilities, engage in a lifelong pursuit of learning, contribute to their communities and to other generations, and overcome personal challenges that every Vermonter can admire.”

“We need to identify and acknowledge the excellence of individuals, organizations and service providers. This award program can help us recognize role models as well identify the best thinking across our state for approaches to promoting Healthy Aging,” said Marion Milne, Commission on Healthy Aging member.

For more information and nomination forms, please go to http://www.dail.vermont.gov/ or contact the Lieutenant Governor’s Office at 802-828-2226 or
martha.hanson@state.vt.us.
The deadline for submitting applications is September 1st, with anticipated award presentations at the Statehouse in October.

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