Food is a connecting factor for many of us. Food connects us to our cultures, our families and our friends. Sharing a meal is an opportunity to learn about its preparation, who made it and where the ingredients were sourced. This March, in celebration of National Nutrition Month, explore how the foods you eat influence your health at every stage of life.

A way to explore and connect with others through food could be learning about the traditions or history behind what you’re eating. Whether a food is traditional or new to you, learning more about how and why it’s prepared can be a valuable experience. It may help build a connection to the person that prepared it, teach about sustainability, or provide information about how it affects your health.

The ability to access food is absolutely essential for people of all ages.  Here are some tips to connect and access food in Weld County:

• Older adults 60+ can join the Friendly Fork Program at one of 22 locations throughout Weld County. For more information on eligibility, site location and registration, visit our website or call 970-400-6950.
• The Weld County Department of Human Services offers food assistance programs for individuals of all ages, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Visit our website for more information about food assistance programs or call 970-400-6012.
• The local Meals on Wheels program provides lunches for individuals that are homebound or are experiencing limited mobility. For more information, visit the Meals on Wheels website or call 970-353-9738.
• The Weld Food Bank provides several food assistance programs for people of all ages. For more information, visit their website or call 970-356-2199.

Each May, Weld County comes together to celebrate Older Americans Month. This is a month to recognize the invaluable contributions that older adults make to our communities and our society. For 2025, the theme of Older Americans Month is "Flip the Script on Aging," urging communities to challenge and change the stereotypes and misconceptions that surround growing older.

Flipping the script on aging encourages us to reconsider the negative stereotypes often associated with aging. Too often, aging is portrayed as a time of decline, dependence and lost potential. These outdated notions can create barriers to older adults fully engaging in life, whether in their families, careers or communities. This theme shifts the focus from limitations to the strengths that come with growing older. It’s a call to spotlight the ways older individuals continue to contribute to society, whether through their careers, volunteering or caregiving roles. Many older adults remain active, healthy and engaged in their communities, showcasing resilience, resourcefulness and wisdom gained from years of experience.

When we embrace a new, more positive perspective on aging, everyone benefits. Here are some key reasons to "flip the script" on aging:

1. Empowerment: When older adults are encouraged to continue pursuing their passions and dreams, they feel empowered and motivated to live fulfilling lives. Age should not be a barrier to personal development or achieving new goals.
2. Health and Well-Being: A positive outlook on aging can improve mental and physical health. Older adults who are encouraged to stay active and engaged tend to have better outcomes in terms of both longevity and quality of life.
3. Social Connection: When older Americans are viewed as vital, active members of society, it fosters a sense of community. Breaking down stereotypes allows for deeper connections across generations, strengthening the fabric of society.
4. Economic Contribution: Older Americans make significant contributions to the economy, whether by remaining in the workforce longer, volunteering or supporting local businesses.
5. Reinforcing Intergenerational Relationships: By challenging the misconceptions surrounding aging, we promote more collaboration between generations.

Are you passionate about senior issues in our community? Do you have interesting stories or knowledge of a topic that you would like to share with others? Do you enjoy writing and have access to a computer with internet access?

The Weld County Area Agency on Aging publishes a weekly page in the Greeley Tribune. This page, titled Beyond 60, is specifically designed to provide interesting articles and relevant information to the older adults in our community.

We could use your writing talents in the following areas: Aging Well, Community Events, Humor, Fitness, Health and Beauty, Senior Lobby/Issues, Nutrition, Entertainment Reviews and general human-interest stories.

If you would like to be a part of the Beyond 60 team, please contact Meredith Skoglund at 970-400-6132 or mskoglund@weld.gov or Monica Wickstrom at 970-400-6305 or mwickstrom@weld.gov.

If you earned less than $67,000 in 2024, Aims Community College’s Greeley campus is offering free tax preparation and e-filing assistance through the Tax Help Colorado program. IRS-certified Aims student and community volunteers are available to help you file your taxes accurately and on time.

No appointment is needed! This service is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where: Aims Community College, Cornerstone Building, 5401 W. 20th St., Greeley

When: Saturdays, from February 8 to April 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Note: Tax Help Colorado will be closed on March 15 and March 22

What to Bring: Make sure your appointment goes smoothly by bringing the following items.

• Income-related documents: All W-2, 1099 and other income forms
• Expense documents: Mortgage interest, daycare payments, college education expenses, charitable contributions and any other tax-deductible expenses
• Identification: Social Security cards or ITIN documents for all family members and a photo ID for the taxpayer
• Bank information: Bank account number and routing number for direct deposit
• Previous year’s tax return: If available

Don't miss this opportunity to get your taxes done with support from trained, knowledgeable volunteers!