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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Dakota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Dakota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />South Dakota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SDAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-dakota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Dakota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-south-dakota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-FAIRFAX-SD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpsd" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Dakota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Dakota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />South Dakota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SDAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-dakota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Dakota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-south-dakota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-FAIRFAX-SD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPSouthDakota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpsd" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.
Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.
“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.
AARP Colorado’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.
Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.
In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.
Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.
“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.
The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers.
Email kmoldovan@aarp.org or call (303) 570-5473.
—David Lewellen
This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the AARP Colorado page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.
Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 at 11:00 p.m. CT
Swank
Online Event
Wednesday, Dec 11, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. CT
Zoom
Online Event
Wednesday, Dec 11, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. CT
Zoom and Facebook
Online Event
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Help Advocate for Policies That Support Older Coloradans</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 11/30/24 by <b>The AARP Bulletin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>When she was an oncology nurse, Amelia Schachter spent many frustrating hours on the phone with insurance companies, trying to get authorization for her patients to receive lifesaving drugs.<br><br>Now retired, Schachter, 69, of Firestone, is still fighting to ensure Coloradans have access to the medications they need—this time as an AARP state legislative advocacy volunteer. This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FAIRFAX-SD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/colorado/" target="_blank">AARP Colorado</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. 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This past year, she met with her state representative and also testified about drug prices during a state Senate committee hearing.<br><br>“We are the people affected by these decisions, and we speak for the people affected,” Schachter says.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/colorado/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP Colorado</a></span></span>’s more than 20 legislative volunteers are invaluable to its work across the state, says Karen Moldovan, associate state director of advocacy.<br><br>Volunteers give real-world perspectives, Moldovan says.<br><br>In addition to connecting with lawmakers one-on-one, volunteers use their professional experiences to help AARP analyze bills. Retired lawyers, accountants, teachers and doctors can offer additional perspective, which is valuable to AARP staff.<br><br>Bob Mulch, a 73-year-old retired physician, from Timnath, holds weekly online meetings during the legislative session with a subgroup of volunteers to discuss health care bills. He also contacts legislators.<br><br>“It’s really good if you can sit there and tell them a story ... about why it’s important,” Mulch says.<br><br>The 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8, and AARP Colorado is seeking volunteers with interest and expertise in policy areas such as health care and housing. It’s also looking for new recruits from Colorado Congressional Districts 2, 4, 5 and 8, and for volunteers with experience as family caregivers. <br><br>Email <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:kmoldovan@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kmoldovan@aarp.org</a></span></span> or call (303) 570-5473. <br><br><b>—David Lewellen</b></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Colorado. 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