Community Corner
VIDEO: "Assisting Seniors Through Enhanced Resources" Takes Off
A new program launches for senior citizens that will provide them with exclusive offers and benefits.
A new nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting local seniors launched Thursday at an initiative that promotes senior citizen discounts at area businesses.
With help from the , ASTER, an acronym for Assisting Seniors Through Enhanced Resources, has compiled a growing list of businesses throughout Montrose, La Crescenta, Sunland, Tujunga, La Cañada Flintridge and North Glendale that offer senior discounts for goods and services. ASTER provides each business with a sign announcing this perk for those age 60 or older.
The group is comprised of community members who provide services to senior citizens and "dedicated to bringing seniors and their families valuable information and top rated resources necessary to properly care for our aging community," according to the ASTER website.
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Tax-deductible memberships for the marketing- and volunteer-minded cost $200 annually. Currently membership stands at 20, and all events and services connected to the organization are free for seniors, said Crescenta Valley Town Councilwoman Robyn Battles, an ASTER member.
"This is a personal mission to take care of seniors because we have not done so and do not show enough respect to our elders," ASTER Director Jeff Friedman said after the meeting. "If just one person does something, maybe it will catch on in the community."
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C.V. Town Councilman Harry Leon also attended the meeting and said his plumbing business' senior discount is on the ASTER registry.
"Senior citizens are neglected in the foothill community," said Leon. "That's why the town council and the chamber of commerce are doing their part to make sure our senior citizens are in good hands."
In addition to spreading the word about senior discounts, ASTER members invited representatives from AARP and the Los Angeles County Area on Aging to speak to attendees about a range of issues and services.
Another meeting is scheduled for July 27, on which the ASTER website will have updates.