Editor's note: The last 15 months presented us with an overload of COVID-19 news and important information that needed to be shared right away. So, we published this update more often - at times weekly. As the news cycle has slowed, many older adults are vaccinated, and things are slowly returning to "normal," we will slow down a bit too, and send this update every-other month. Plan to hear from us next in July. For more-frequent updates, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Thanks for being a subscriber!

COA is seeking licensed social workers and registered nurses to join our team as a care manager, assessor, supervisor or program manager. Our employees experience the rewards of helping older adults and people with disabilities remain safely in their homes ... where they want to be.

Most COA employees work during regular business hours, and out of their homes, giving them an excellent work/life balance. Additionally, we offer LISW supervision, and many opportunities for advancement. And, we are currently offering a $1,500 sign-on bonus for recent graduates!

Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the celebration of Older Americans Month. This year’s theme is Communities of Strength, recognizing the important role older adults play in fostering the connection and engagement that build strong, resilient communities. Read more.

The Federal Communications Commission is now accepting applications for its Emergency Broadband Benefit, a program to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic. It will provide a monthly discount of $50 for eligible single households. Visit the FCC program page for details and to apply.

It's been a busy 50 years since COA was founded in 1971! While there are many highlights to celebrate, a pivotal one was the beginning of the PASSPORT program in Ohio in 1986. PASSPORT was the state's first alternative to Medicaid nursing home care. To this day, COA continues to administer the program in our five-county service area. In 2020, COA helped keep 27,511 clients - in PASSPORT and other programs - safe and independent in their own homes.

Follow along on Facebook this year as we share memories of our 50 years of service. Share your own COA memories on our page and tag them with #COA50years.

To encourage Ohioans to get vaccinated, Gov. DeWine announced the state's Vax-A-Million public outreach campaign. Ohio is giving away five, $1 million dollar prizes to Ohioans 18 and older who've received at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Entry is required at www.ohiovaxamillion.com or by calling 1-833-427-5634. Those 12-17 who've received at least their first Pfizer vaccine can enter using the same website/phone number to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships to any Ohio state college or university. Details and deadlines are available at the Vax-A-Million website.

There's been a recent flurry of updates to CDC guidance related to mask wearing, as well as state health order changes and other updates. We've got links to the highlights below if you're having trouble keeping up.