TAVARES — Guests at the Second Annual Elder Symposium, held May 5 in Mount Dora, witnessed the recognition of the City of Mascotte and Lake County as they were both honored by the Department of Elder Affairs Secretary Carole Green for participating in a statewide initiative.

Florida Department of Elder Affairs Secretary Carole Green awards Lake County and Commissioner Catherine Hanson for their support in the "Communities for a Lifetime" program.

The “Communities for a Lifetime” program assists Florida cities and counties in planning and implementing improvements that benefit the lives of all residents, youthful or senior. The initiative, started by Gov. Jeb Bush in 2000, recognizes the diverse needs of residents and the unique contributions individuals can make to their communities.

Lake County became a partner in “Communities for a Lifetime” several years ago, however Commissioner Catherine Hanson and members of the County’s Elder Affairs Coordinating Council were awarded a certificate from Secretary Green for the continuing support of the program.

Council members from the City of Mascotte were also awarded a certificate of recognition from “Communities for a Lifetime” for being the first municipality in Lake County to enter the program.

“I think we have to try to make more communities willing to do this,” said Green. “I appreciate what Lake County and Mascotte have done to take care of their citizens. I believe strongly that we need to care of our seniors.”

Participating communities in the program use existing resources and state technical assistance to make crucial civic improvements in such areas as housing, health care, transportation, accessibility, business partnerships, community education, efficient use of natural resources and volunteer opportunities to the betterment of their communities.

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Contact information:
Christopher Patton
Communications Coordinator
Office: (352) 343-9609; Cell: (352) 455-0445
cpatton@co.lake.fl.us