Dear Seniors,
As we welcome the month of August, I hope you are finding meaningful ways to stay active, connected, and safe during these warm summer days. August often brings some of the year’s hottest temperatures, so I encourage everyone, especially older residents, to take extra precautions by staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and checking in on neighbors, friends, and loved ones. Remember, all DACL Senior Wellness Centers serve as cooling centers during operating hours and offer safe, air-conditioned spaces where District residents can beat the heat. For more information about our centers or available services, please contact my office at 202-724-5626.
Last month, DACL proudly represented the District on a national stage as members of our senior leadership team and staff traveled to San Diego, CA, to attend the 51st Annual USAging Conference. The conference brought together aging professionals from across the country to exchange innovative ideas, discuss emerging trends, and share successful strategies for supporting older adults. We are excited to bring those insights, partnerships, and best practices back to the District as we continue strengthening the programs and services available to older adults, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers.
While at the conference, DACL was also honored to receive a 2026 USAging Aging Achievement Award, recognizing agencies that develop creative and impactful solutions to help older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers thrive in their homes and communities. DACL’s Senior Ambassador Program was recognized for its outstanding community outreach efforts. Through this initiative, trained Senior Ambassadors connect residents with valuable programs, services, and resources that empower them to age safely, independently, and comfortably in place. This national recognition reflects DACL’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in serving our residents and making the District the best place to age. If you are interested in becoming a change agent for the District and joining the DACL ambassadors, please contact my office at 202-724-5626 or email dacl.communications@dc.gov.
As we celebrate these accomplishments, Team DACL is also preparing for one of our most cherished annual traditions, Mayor Bowser’s 40th Annual Centenarian Salute. Each September, we proudly honor District residents who are 100 years of age and older to celebrate their extraordinary lives, wisdom, resilience, and contributions they have made to our city.
If you or a loved one is a District resident who will be 100 years old by September 7, 2026, we invite you to be recognized during this year’s celebration. Please submit the individual’s name, date of birth, contact information, and a brief biography by August 15, 2026. To register or learn more, please contact my office at 202-724-5626 or email dacl.communications@dc.gov.
As always, thank you for allowing DACL to serve you. Together, we will continue building a District where every resident can age with dignity, independence, and purpose.
In Service,
Charon P.W. Hines
Director
Department of Aging and Community Living
