Purpose

The purpose of the Council is to advise Sourcewise and its Board of Directors about the needs of older adults and disabled persons in the county, to advocate on behalf of the most vulnerable and those of greatest need within the community, and to inform the community of resources and services available through Sourcewise.

The Advisory Council operates under the authority of the federal Older Americans Act and the state Older Californians Act. “The council shall carry out advisory functions which further the area agency’s mission of developing and coordinating community-based systems of services for all older persons in the planning and service area.” (CFR Sec. 1321.57(a))

Functions

Council members are actively involved in the development, implementation, and monitoring of the Area Plan, which assesses unmet needs and identifies service goals and objectives. Members are also included in the evaluation of applications for grants for services such as nutrition, legal aid, and adult day care.

Members are encouraged to actively engage with senior coordinating councils in their communities, as well as advocacy organizations, elected officials, and the general public for the purpose of increasing awareness of issues of concern to older adults and disabled persons.

Council members represent the diverse cultural and ethnic communities, areas of need, senior organizations, and cities and supervisor districts within the county.  For each of the communities they represent, Council members report on events and needs within their communities and take back to their communities what they’ve learned through their Council participation. Members also serve on committees of the Council that advocate for specific needs, such as transportation, legislation, or health.

Attend an Upcoming Meeting

Advisory Council meetings are open to the public. At meetings, members discuss activities of the Council, exchange information about upcoming events, and learn about the latest programs and services of Sourcewise. Guest speakers inform members of current needs and issues facing older adults and disabled persons within the county.

Meetings occur 10 times a year, on the first Monday of the month, from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Meetings are currently being held virtually, via Zoom, until further notice.

Members of the Advisory Council, 2023 – 2024

Council members serve for a term of three years, beginning July 1st, and may renew for one additional term.