Last month marked an entire year since I’ve had the privilege of serving as your Director of the Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL). Working alongside our dedicated team to serve our nearly 120,000 seniors in the District of Columbia has been an incredible journey. Your support and engagement have truly been the driving force behind our efforts.
Leading up to my one-year anniversary, I had the opportunity to testify at the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Performance Oversight Hearing before DC Council’s Committee on Executive Administration and Labor. It was important for us to showcase our significant progress over the past year and outline our vision for the future. Under the leadership of Mayor Muriel Bowser, DACL remains committed to five core areas essential for supporting older residents like you – socialization, transportation, nutrition, aging in place, and providing high-quality services.
I often remind my team of this quote I live by at DACL, “For without the seniors, there is no us.” I say this as much as I can because it is so true about the work that DACL does from day to day. We could not do the work we do without you. Your feedback, accountability, and encouragement continually inspire us to strive for excellence, and we want you to continue to share your voice with us. So, if you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to us at 202-724-5626.
As a third-generation Washingtonian, I am deeply honored to make a difference in the very city that raised me. This month, as we commemorate International Women’s History Month, I am reminded of the extraordinary women who have left an indelible mark on our vibrant community. From Sharon Pratt, the first female Mayor of DC, to Virginia Ali, the visionary behind Ben’s Chili Bowl, Mary McLeod Bethune, a trailblazer in civil rights and education, and of course, our 3-time mayor Muriel Bowser, who is also the first African American woman in the U.S. to be elected to three, four terms as Mayor of any American city; their profound contributions resonate throughout the fabric of our city.
Additionally, I am inspired by the countless DC older adults like yourselves who, through your ongoing efforts, continue to effect positive change. Your legacies serve as beacons, motivating us to lead and strive for meaningful progress.
Live Boldly is not just a motto but a call to action. I know that our seniors embody this spirit daily and have countless stories to share. If you’re interested in sharing your experiences and wisdom, please email us at dacl.communications@dc.gov. We look forward to hearing from you and amplifying your voices.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and here’s to another year of serving and celebrating our vibrant aging community.
In Service,
Charon P.W. Hines