How a Volunteer Legislature Is Shaping the Future for 2.7 Million Older Adults
North Carolina is growing—and changing—faster than ever. Today, more than 2.7 million residents, about one in four people in the state, are age 60 or older. These are our neighbors, parents, veterans, and friends—people who want to stay active, independent, and connected to their communities.
But with this growth comes real challenges. Many older adults face barriers to healthcare, affordable housing, transportation, and the everyday services that make it possible to age with dignity and independence.
One group working behind the scenes to address these needs is the North Carolina Senior Tar Heel Legislature (NCSTHL). While not widely known, this dedicated, volunteer-led organization is making a meaningful difference across the state.
A Voice for Every Community
The NCSTHL is a statewide, nonpartisan group that represents all 100 counties in North Carolina. What makes it special is the people behind it—delegates who bring real-life experience, not just statistics, to the table.
Modeled after the state’s General Assembly, this group identifies the most important issues facing older adults, develops priorities, and works directly with lawmakers. In simple terms, they turn everyday experiences into real solutions that can shape policy.
A Fresh Vision for the Future
In October 2025, new leadership stepped in with a clear mission: Educate. Advocate. Empower. Impact. This vision is guiding the organization as it grows stronger and more effective.
To better serve communities, NCSTHL is modernizing how it operates. Improved communication tools, updated systems, and better access to information are helping volunteers stay connected and informed. These changes make it easier to respond quickly to the needs of older adults across the state.
Advocacy That Never Stops
Advocacy today looks different than it once did. Instead of meeting a few times a year, NCSTHL is working year-round to stay engaged.
Delegates regularly gather input from their communities—listening to concerns, identifying gaps, and bringing those insights forward. This ongoing approach means issues can be addressed sooner, not months down the road.
As Speaker Gayla S. Woody puts it, effective advocacy starts with listening and then turning those voices into action.
Making Sure Voices Are Heard
For real change to happen, people need to pay attention. That’s why NCSTHL is increasing its visibility across the state.
The organization is strengthening relationships with lawmakers, building partnerships with aging-focused groups, and expanding outreach efforts. The goal is simple: make sure the voices of older adults are not only heard—but acted on.
Key Challenges—and Opportunities
As planning begins for the future, several important issues stand out:
A Growing Population Without Matching Funding
While the number of older adults continues to rise, funding for services hasn’t kept pace. Investing earlier can help prevent bigger, more costly challenges later.
Waiting Lists for Essential Services
Many people are waiting for basic supports like home-delivered meals, in-home care, and transportation. Small increases in funding could quickly reduce these delays and improve daily life.
Too Much Focus on Institutional Care
A large portion of funding still goes toward long-term care facilities. Yet most people prefer to stay in their own homes. Supporting “aging in place” is not only more personal—it’s also more cost-effective.
Budget Priorities That Don’t Always Align
Current funding doesn’t always reflect the goal of helping people remain independent. Shifting resources toward community-based services can strengthen families and local systems.
The Push to Become More Age-Friendly
North Carolina’s “All Ages, All Stages” plan is creating a path forward. Age-friendly communities benefit everyone—and studies show they can provide a strong return on investment while improving quality of life.
Building a Better Future Together
At its core, the work of the NC Senior Tar Heel Legislature is about people. It’s about making sure those who helped build our communities continue to have a voice in shaping what comes next.
With stronger tools, a clear vision, and a growing network of passionate volunteers, NCSTHL is helping North Carolina move toward a future where aging is not seen as a challenge—but as an opportunity.
