PCA legislative breakfast brings leaders together to advance aging priorities in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging recently convened elected officials, candidates, community partners, aging advocates and supporters for its Legislative Breakfast, a forum focused on the policies, partnerships and public leadership needed to better support older adults, caregivers and people with disabilities.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from PCA President & CEO Najja R. Orr, who emphasized PCA’s commitment to helping older Philadelphians and individuals with disabilities live with independence, dignity and well-being. Orr also underscored that strong communities for people as they age require more than direct services alone. They require thoughtful public policy, collaboration and shared commitment from leaders at every level.
The program included an Aging Leaders Panel featuring Pennsylvania House Appropriations Chairman Rep. Jordan Harris, Pennsylvania State Representative Joe Hohenstein, Philadelphia City Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke, Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich and Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging Executive Director Rebecca May-Cole. Together, the panelists brought perspectives from state government, city leadership and the aging services network to a discussion centered on the needs, challenges and opportunities facing older adults across Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.
The event also featured a moderated candidate discussion led by Nydia Han of 6abc, who spoke personally about her experience as a caregiver for her father and professionally about the importance of elevating issues affecting older adults as family, community and quality-of-life issues. The candidate forum included Senator Sharif Street and Representative Chris Rabb, who were invited to discuss leadership, public service, aging services, access to care, long-term supports, caregiver needs and the role of government in improving quality of life for older Philadelphians.
Throughout the program, participants explored how public officials can work across differences, turn policy ideas into meaningful action, strengthen partnerships with organizations that serve older adults, and address gaps in care and support. The discussion also highlighted the importance of moving beyond campaign promises toward real results that support family caregivers, expand access to services and protect the dignity of people as they age.
PCA’s Legislative Breakfast served as an important opportunity to elevate the priorities of older adults and caregivers, encourage dialogue with public leaders, and reaffirm PCA’s role as a convener, advocate and trusted resource for aging services in Philadelphia.
