Big news! We’re thrilled to announce our new structure with three supporting partners: SWPPA, Chatham University and University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work. Read our press release.
A Better Place to Grow Old
Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh is dedicated to making our region more inclusive and respectful of all ages.
Our population is growing older—and fast. Every day across the country, 10,000 Baby Boomers turn 65. Here in Southwestern Pennsylvania, between 2015-2030, we will experience a 40% increase in the number of people ages 65+. Between 2030-2045, we will experience a 75% increase in people ages 85+.
At Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh, we see this new demographic reality as an opportunity. It means our region has a new, growing resource—people with career expertise, lived experience, buying power and diverse skills and interests.
And it means it’s time for us to take action. A region that’s more accessible and welcoming is one that’s better for older people—and better for everyone.
What We Are Doing
Our mission is to bring generations together to reimagine how our neighborhoods are built, and to advance equity through advocacy, education and innovation. Our recent Age-Friendly Survey reached 1,646 residents ages 45+ across Allegheny County.
Here are some progress highlights:
- During COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, helped establish a Transportation Network utilizing paratransit vehicles to move food and supplies—rather than people—delivering tens of thousands of meals and truckloads of supplies, including PPE.
- Engaged 400+ advocates across six neighborhoods in pop-up street performances called The Crossings, sparking change including new signage, widened curb cuts and adoption of a Complete Streets policy. $455,000 was allocated from the City budget to upgrade two dangerous intersections
- In partnership with nearly 29 public and private transit providers, launched an online concierge tool called A to B Allegheny, for riders to better navigate their options
- Hosted a series of four Legislative Briefings in partnership with AARP Pennsylvania, convening 300+ attendees, including 80 elected officials or their staffers
- Met up with 100+ community members through #CoffeeConnectPGH, pop-up events promoting social connection and intergenerational solidarity. Throughout the pandemic, online sessions offered regularly through Virtual Senior Academy, Jewish Healthcare Foundation’s learning platform with 1,000+ users
- Since November 2018, provided age-friendly training to each new class of bus operators for Port Authority of Allegheny County
- In collaboration with Lively Pittsburgh, organized 13 Aging Your Way workshops in urban and suburban neighborhoods (most recently in Coraopolis and Clairton), inspiring residents to activate their own age-friendly projects
- Launched Dementia Friendly Greater Pittsburgh, part of the Dementia Friendly America Network, to share resources and offer education on how to create safe, respectful and engaging environments for those living with dementia and their care partners
- Championed progressive housing solutions, including a cohousing project called Rachel Carson Ecovillage that’s under development on the Eden Hall Campus of Chatham University
- Identified 20+ resources and tips for older adults seeking employment, summarized in this guide: AFGP Workforce Resource 2022.
Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh is made possible through the generous support of the Henry L. Hillman Foundation, the Jefferson Regional Foundation, and the Heinz Family Foundation.
Our Projects
In the News
“Aging in Community,” produced by David Freudberg | Humankind Public Radio and Podcast
“Age-Friendly Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, Pennsylvania Respond to COVID-19,” by AARP Livable Communities | aarp.org
“Community Profile: Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh,” by AARP Livable Communities | aarp.org
“Want to Live to 100? Living in One of These 8 U.S. Cities Will Help,” by Paula Spencer Scott | Parade
“Age-Forward Cities for 2030,” by Caroline Servat and Nora Super | Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging
“How This Big City Is Becoming Age-Friendly,” by Laura Poskin | Next Avenue, forbes.com
What is Age-Friendly?
We are part of the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. There are currently more than 1,000 age-friendly communities in 41 countries. In the United States, AARP leads designation and coordination efforts through the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.
Connect with Us
Laura Poskin
Executive Director
412-365-1445
Cassandra Masters
Assistant Director
412-365-1449
Randi Vega
Community Engagement Manager
412-439-2025