A Buchanan man has been appointed to a 40-member advisory body designed to study aging issues in the state and advocate on behalf of older adults.
Adam Burck of Buchanan has joined the Michigan State Advisory Council on Aging along with three other newcomer and the reappointment of three others to the 40-member team at the Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging (CSA).
Those, like Burck, who are appointed by the commission as members of the advisory council not only study aging issues and advocate for older adults, but also recommend policies to the overarching commission. The commission is appointed by the governor and works closely with the Aging and Adult Services Agency at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to shape policy and address the concerns of Michigan’s aging and adult population.
Burck, whose new term runs through July 31st of 2023, represents the Region IV Area Agency on Aging on the panel.
Commissioner Kristie Zamora says, “The State Advisory Committee to the Commission on Services to the Aging is a diverse group of individuals working together to improve the lives of older Michiganders,” and notes, “Each year, SAC members research a topic based on an issue pertinent to older adults. Work groups are formed, and each SAC member contributes to the researching, interviewing and writing to create a final report and propose recommended actions for MDHHS and the legislature.”
New appointees from this week’s action include:
- Diane L. Bach, Adrian
- Carl A. Gibson, Marshall
- Adam D. Burck, Buchanan
- Kathy A. Kimmel, Cadillac
The reappointments made this week include:
- Elizabeth Thompson, Ypsilanti
- Joseph V. Sowmick, Mount Pleasant
- Robyn E. Ford, Lansing
SAC membership reflects the cultural, demographic and geographic diversity of Michigan’s older population. Three-year term appointments are made by the commission with consideration given to geographic representation, based on the current openings in the 16 Area Agency on Aging (AAA) regions. Applications are reviewed by an Appointment Review Committee throughout the year, and additional members are currently being sought.
Council members meet year-round, participating in up to five meetings in Lansing and collaborate monthly by virtual meetings or conference calls. During the COVID-19 pandemic, all regular meetings are being held virtually.
To learn more about the State Advisory Council on Aging you can visit the Aging and Adult Services Agency website online at this link:
https://www.michigan.gov/osa/0,4635,7-234-64080-324837–,00.html
