ADvancing States Celebrates their 50th Anniversary

ADvancing States is delighted to announce that this year marks their 50th Anniversary

ADvancing States 50th

ADvancing States was founded in 1964 under the name National Association of State Units on Aging (NASUA). In 2010, the organization changed its name to ADvancing States to formally recognize the work that the state agencies perform in the field of disability policy and advocacy. Today, ADvancing States represents the nation's 56 state and territorial agencies on aging and disabilities and supports visionary state leadership, the advancement of state systems innovation and the articulation of national policies that support home and community based services for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

"We are excited to celebrate 50 years with ADvancing States. ADvancing States is a valuable resource to the states. Their programs and research have allowed us to combine ideas and best practices which maximize services to older adults and people with disabilities within our state." Gloria Lawlah, ADvancing States Board President.

During the past half century, states have seen many improvements for older adults and people with disabilities. In 1983 Congress created the first Home and Community-Based Medicaid Waiver, and ADvancing States hosted the first Waiver Conference, now known as the National HCBS Conference. In the 30 years since, both the HCBS waivers and the conference have expanded their scope and depth, covering more populations and services.

ADvancing States is delighted to celebrate the 30th National Home and Community-Based Services Conference during our 50th Anniversary. While faced with new challenges, reduced budgets and growing populations requiring more services, states' programs and service are stronger than ever and the work they do is more effective at reaching individuals and addressing their needs.

"The HCBS Conference is an integral part of our programming year. It is richly valuable for employees in our state to connect with their peers and learn about projects and research happening throughout the country. I am thrilled to mark the 50th Anniversary with ADvancing States at the 30th Annual HCBS Conference." Lance Robertson, ADvancing States Past Board President.

ADvancing States looks forward to reflecting on the many accomplishments over the past half century with states, advocates and the aging and disability community throughout this year.

News date: 
Friday, February 7, 2014