Click here to read “CARP resurgence sees expansion into County” by Paul Rellinger, published by myKwartha.com on June 16, 2015.
PETERBOROUGH — Few organizations exemplify the truth of “power in numbers” more effectively than the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP).
With more than 350,000 members Canada-wide, CARP promotes and lobbies for social and political change that will bring forth financial security, equitable access to health care and freedom from age discrimination for its members.
Now the organization is seeing a resurgence in Peterborough with a revitalization of the local chapter, which has been expanded its reach to now include the County of Peterborough. On Monday (June 15) at Peterborough City Hall, interim chapter chair Robert Campbell was joined by Mayor Daryl Bennett and County Warden J. Murray Jones in the raising of the CARP flag to herald the new chapter’s formation.
He explained Chapter 16 boasts a healthy 1,700 members but the goal is 4,000 to 5,000. To that end, he says CARP will be more visible, starting with its presence today (Wednesday) at the Seniors’ Summit Showcase at the Sport and Wellness Centre.
As well, a survey has gone out to members, asking how CARP can be most effective in working for them.
“I’m a retired policeman…I’ve seen firsthand what many of the challenges are for seniors,” noted Mr. Campbell, a Bridgenorth resident who saw CARP’s non-presence in the county as a shortfall.
“CARP is a place where seniors can advocate and be heard. We believe that voice for them should be us.”
An interim Chapter 16 board came together in February and went to work setting in place a new set of bylaws and constitution.
Mr. Campbell notes one does not have to be a retiree to be a member of CARP. Those interested in becoming a member can register at www.carp.ca
He adds CARP has historically had the ear of politicians and other decision makers, advancing the needs and concerns of aging Canadians in such as areas as pension reform, health care, the role and importance of caregivers, the rights of older workers, elder abuse prevention and the creation of age-friendly communities.
As well, CARP members enjoy group discounts for insurance, travel and accommodation, car rental, cell phone service, optical services and hearing devices, fitness programs and home care services.
