The Aging System Coordinator supports and monitors community-based programs in Sarasota County while strengthening partnerships that address aging-related initiatives, including the Age-Friendly Sarasota / Community for All Ages Initiative.

In 2015, Sarasota County became Florida’s first member of the World Health Organization’s Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities and the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. In 2019, Sarasota County, in partnership with the Florida Department of Health, assumed leadership of the initiative. The Sarasota County Seniors Advisory Council, established in 2000, serves as the reviewing body and contributed to the 2022–2025 Action Plan.

Age-friendly communities promote inclusive, active living through collaboration among residents, government, businesses, and nonprofits. This ongoing effort emphasizes continuous improvement and welcomes community input to enhance livability for all ages.

 

Age Friendly Sarasota Celebrating 10 Years 

Ten years ago, our community committed to becoming a place where people of all ages can live, thrive, and age with dignity. Along with community parters, we worked to build a more inclusive, supportive, and accessible environment, knowing these efforts benefit everyone.

Over the past decade, we’ve made measurable progress, and as we enter our third Age-Friendly cycle, we are integrating the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) with the Age-Friendly Sarasota Action Plan.  Many of our goals and strategies are shared, and key community partners are involved in both. 

As we reflect on a decade of progress, we are reminded that the work continues.  We invite you to explore the reports (available in the document section below), celebrate what we've accomplished together, and help shape what comes next.

 

 Florida Department of Health Sarasota County LogoElder Affairs logo

 

 

Florida Department of Children and Families logo

Area Agency on Aging logo

 

Aging Committees'

Aging Stakeholders: The Aging Stakeholders is a sub-committee of the larger Community Alliance that provides opportunities for education, information and collaboration with professionals working in the Aging System. The meeting is held the second Wednesday of each month from 9-10 am via Zoom. You can reach out to Sue Berger at sberger@scgov.net or call 941-861-2558 for more information.

Sarasota County Senior Advocacy Council: The Sarasota Senior Advocacy Council is a 501C3 created to address the unmet needs of low-income seniors living in our community by establishing a network of professionals who can assist older adults with their unmet needs through appropriate referrals and services. The meeting is held on the second Tuesday of each month from 9-10 am at various locations. You can find more information under the Helpful Links.

Manasota Healthcare Network

The Manasota Healthcare Network is a monthly gathering of healthcare and related industry professionals from Sarasota and Manatee counties. The group provides opportunities for connection, education, and meaningful networking. Its mission is to build strong professional relationships, share valuable resources, and collaborate to better serve the health and well-being of our community.

Meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at Der Dutchman Restaurant, cost is $30. Reach out to Manasotahealthnetwork@gmail.com for more information.