May 1, 2023
To Whom it May Concern:
It has been my pleasure to support a partnership between the City of Colorado Springs and Innovations in Aging Collaborative (IIAC) for almost a decade. In March 2016, I was proud to announce the initial designation of Colorado Springs as an AARP Age-Friendly City. As my final term as mayor comes to an end, I am encouraged by the continued momentum of IIAC as they usher in a second consecutive Age-Friendly designation for our city. Our aging population is growing rapidly, and it is essential that we create an environment that supports the needs of our older residents. As a community, we have a responsibility to ensure that our seniors can age with dignity, respect, and independence.
Through multiple listening sessions, an active Age-Friendly summit, and countless hours of work donated by dedicated volunteers, IIAC has focused the brightest local minds on the future of aging-in-community, and what we might achieve together in the next five years. By creating an environment that is accessible and inclusive for all ages, we show respect for our older residents and ensure that our community remains vibrant and thriving for generations to come.
The innovative programs of IIAC, along with the work of convening elected officials, community leaders, and partner organizations have together been instrumental in promoting healthy aging, reducing isolation, and improving the quality of life for seniors in the Pikes Peak region. IIAC remain local leaders in Age-Friendly design, helping to build Colorado Springs into a livable community for everyone who grows up and grows older here. I look forward to watching the Age-Friendly program of IIAC continue to flourish in Colorado Springs.
Sincerely,
John W. Suthers
Mayor of Colorado Springs
