Its goal is to keep seniors in their homes as they grow older with independence, dignity and civic engagement and develop communities that are friendly to seniors as well as to people of all ages.   

The initiative was launched in 2006 by County Executive Andrew J. Spano, and is sponsored by the county’s Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS) and the Westchester Public/Private Partnership for Aging Services in partnership with AARP and the Volunteer Service Center.

Just a few primary features of livable communities are informal services provided by volunteers such as health and wellness programs, educational and cultural programs, support services such as accessible and adequate transportation, personal safety, consumer protection and advocacy for affordable housing and safe sidewalks and roads. 
 
We received special recognition from AARP when it identified us as one of three Livable Community models in the United States. Our program has also won many awards, including ones for innovation and groundbreaking work from the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging and the National Association of County Organizations.

At this time, our initiative is unfolding in Westchester through the Livable Community Village Approach – a “neighbors-helping-neighbors" program that teaches people of all generations how to empower themselves to become advocates for change.

Check out the links on this page to learn more about our program, such as the ones for the Livable Community Village Approach brochure and the Livable Community Village Needs/Interests Survey booklet.  The booklet will help your group to focus on what you consider the most pressing needs where you live. Once you have determined your needs, take the individual survey or the group survey.

 If you need to contact DSPS, call (914) 813-6406 or e-mail bab6@westchestergov.com.