News Center | Press Releases
Atlanta — May 30, 2025
The Atlanta Regional Commission’s Live Beyond Expectations 2020-2025 strategic initiative has been nationally recognized as a recipient of USAging’s 2025 Aging Innovations Award. Live Beyond Expectations is a long-range plan that aims to support communities where residents have low life expectancy and advance innovative strategies for aging well. USAging, the national association representing Area Agencies on Aging, will officially recognize ARC’s achievement during its Annual Conference and Tradeshow, taking place in Chicago from July 20-23, 2025.
As the federally designated Area Agency on Aging for metro Atlanta, ARC supports programs and initiatives that enhance the well-being of older adults and create more livable communities for persons of all ages and abilities.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our team and the communities we serve,” said Becky A. Kurtz, Senior Managing Director of ARC’s Aging & Independence Services, and Director, Area Agency on Aging. “Through Live Beyond Expectations, we’re addressing life expectancy gaps and working to build a future where every person, in every neighborhood, can thrive.”
In metro Atlanta, life expectancy can differ by nearly 24 years between neighborhoods just four miles apart. Through the Live Beyond Expectations initiative, ARC used US Census data to identify 13 communities with significantly lower life expectancies. These include areas in South DeKalb County, South Fulton County, and parts of Clayton and Gwinnett counties. These communities often face systemic barriers related to poverty, limited access to healthcare, and fewer opportunities for older adults to age in place.
In response, ARC strengthened relationships with local organizations, faith-based groups, and local leaders. It also refined outreach efforts, and expanded access to services like meal delivery, home modifications, and caregiver support. As a result, there was a 20 percent increase in clients receiving AAA-funded aging services in these areas. While not all disparities can be directly addressed, ARC’s work through this initiative enhances health and quality of life, while advocating for broader systemic change alongside policymakers and community partners.
Metro Atlanta residents are able to access services through Empowerline, ARC’s network which connects older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers to essential resources like in-home support, transportation, and wellness programs. To explore services, residents can visit Empowerline or call 404-463-3333 for personal assistance in navigating available support options.
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The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is the official planning agency for the 11-county Atlanta Region, including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties as well as the City of Atlanta and 75 other cities. The Atlanta Regional Commission’s mission is to foster thriving communities for all within the Atlanta region through collaborative, data-informed planning and investments.
The Aging and Independence Services (A&IS) Department at the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) serves as the federally designated Area Agency on Aging providing services in Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties. A&IS is guided by the Advisory Committee on Aging and funded in part by the federal Older Americans Act, and other state and local resources.
Contact Name: Kennae Hunter
Contact Phone: 762-772-0260
Contact Email: [email protected]
ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more.
