Agency on Aging Sets Annual Legislative Forum, Multi-Year Plan Public Hearings

Tri-county event to bring community and state officials together to discuss senior issues

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:00pm

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The Region IV Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is hosting its 19th annual tri-county Legislative Forum on April 13, providing an opportunity for seniors, caregivers, people with disabilities, and aging professionals to engage with state legislators on key issues. The event will also serve as a public hearing for AAA's Multi-Year Plan, which outlines how federal and state funds will be spent to support services for older adults in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties from 2026 to 2029.

Why it matters

This annual forum is an important platform for the community to advocate for the needs of older adults and ensure adequate funding and support for critical services that allow seniors to age with dignity and independence in their homes and communities.

The details

The Legislative Forum will take place from 2-4 pm on April 13 at the Campus for Creative Aging in St. Joseph. Representatives Joey Andrews, Steve Carra, and Senator Jonathon Lindsey are scheduled to attend, along with legislative staff for Senator Aric Nesbitt. The event will also serve as a public hearing for AAA's Multi-Year Plan, which outlines how federal and state funds will be used to support services for older adults in the tri-county region from 2026 to 2029.

  • The Legislative Forum is set for Monday, April 13, 2026 from 2-4 pm.
  • Additional public hearings for the Multi-Year Plan will be held on April 15 in South Haven and April 22 in Cassopolis.

The players

Region IV Area Agency on Aging (AAA)

A regional agency that provides services and support for older adults in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.

Christine Vanlandingham

Chief executive officer for the Region IV Area Agency on Aging.

Representative Joey Andrews

Democratic state representative for District 38.

Representative Steve Carra

Republican state representative for District 36.

Senator Jonathon Lindsey

Republican state senator for District 17.

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What they’re saying

“Decisions made in Lansing have a direct and far-reaching impact on the quality of life for seniors in Michigan.”

— Christine Vanlandingham, Chief executive officer, Region IV Area Agency on Aging

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This annual forum is a crucial opportunity for the community to advocate for the needs of older adults and ensure adequate funding and support for the critical services that allow seniors to age with dignity and independence in their homes and communities.