Free community gatherings highlight program’s impact and the need to protect it
LANSING, Mich. — Social Security is turning 90—and AARP Michigan is celebrating with purpose.
For nine decades, Social Security has been more than a government program. It has been a lifeline, a promise, and a source of dignity for millions of Americans—including older adults, people with disabilities, children who have lost parents, and workers preparing for retirement.
To honor Social Security’s legacy and rally support for its future, AARP Michigan is hosting a series of free, in-person events this July and August in Ann Arbor, Lansing, Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Flint. All are welcome to attend. Local Members of Congress have been invited.
Each event will feature helpful resources, timely information, refreshments, and giveaways. Highlights include:
Flint – Get the Scoop on Social Security
with Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet
Wednesday, July 30 | 12:30 – 2:00 p.m.
Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E Kearsley St, Flint, MI 48503
Register here
Ann Arbor – Social Security 90th Anniversary Happy Hour
Thursday, July 31 | 4:00 – 6:30 p.m.
HOMES Campus – Beer Garden, 112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Register here
Lansing – Get the Scoop on Social Security
Wednesday, August 6 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Southeast corner of the Capitol lawn, Lansing, MI 48933
Register here
Detroit – Rise and Rally for Social Security
Tuesday, August 12 | 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Detroit Riverwalk, Cullen Plaza, 1340 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207
Register here
Grand Rapids – Social Social with Congresswoman Hillary Scholten
Wednesday, August 13 | 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, 3215 Eaglecrest Dr. NE,
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Register here
As part of the celebration, AARP Michigan is launching “Social Security on the Street,” a new series of short, heartfelt social media videos on Facebook. In each clip, real Michiganders share what Social Security means to them—from independence in retirement to vital support in times of hardship.
AARP Michigan is also urging residents to raise their voices by signing the Social Security Pledge—a call to Congress to protect and strengthen the benefits people have earned through a lifetime of work.
“Social Security is not a handout—it’s a promise,” said Paula D. Cunningham, AARP Michigan State Director. “This anniversary is a moment to honor that promise and protect it. We’re celebrating the voices of everyday people—and calling on our leaders to do their part to ensure its future. Social Security is your money—you’ve earned it. Make sure it’s there for you, your children, and your grandchildren.”
To sign the pledge, visit: bit.ly/MiPledge