Youth impress at AEOA Senior Expo
Area youth and the young at heart recently shared a day of smiles and support for our advanced age community at Senior Expo 2026 in Virginia.
Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) hosted its 40th annual spring event Wednesday, May 6, at Iron Trail Motors Event Center. Nearly 300 attendees turned out for the Expo on the chilly day.
“Fun event, I love the Senior Expo!” Hilary Z. shared.
A crew of 25 AEOA volunteers assisted in orchestrating the event, but the highlight of the Expo was the Youth in Action team. Eighteen Mountain-Iron Buhl high school volunteers mingled with visitors, registered guests and helped with the lunch service.
“The MIB students did a wonderful job!” said Jim S.
Attendees praised students and provided feedback on the event through surveys.
“Youth in Action were very helpful,” agreed George W. “Good mixture of vendors that serve seniors.”
Once called the “Senior Carnival,” AEOA’s senior event has evolved through the past four decades to accommodate a more active aging population. This year’s Expo featured 40 vendors providing health and medical resources, lifestyle education, financial information, travel opportunities and legal advice as well as services provided by AEOA. People were also given the opportunity to visit with assisted living, nursing home and hospice care representatives.
“Very nicely done. Wonderful way to get lots of resources to the community!” said Angie R.
While the event has changed with the times, some cherished elements have remained. The event continues the tradition of a sit-down luncheon, live music and prize drawings. The agency recognizes and appreciates how important this event is to people’s socialization.
“I look forward to this event every year!” said Roberta K.
Emcee Mark Page, AEOA Executive Director, announced 17 winners of prize giveaways totaling $450 in gift cards along with two hanging flower baskets. After the event concluded, one survey participant’s name was drawn for yet another prize.
Attractions at Senior Expo 2026 included, musical stylings by Shannon Gunderson, capturing moments at a photo booth and free books provided by Arrowhead Library Systems. Assorted flower centerpieces were displayed on dinging tables with one lucky person sitting at each table winning the adornment. Floral décor for Senior Expo 2026 was purchased locally from Vern’s Greenhouse.
Planning for next year’s event is already underway. What would you like to see at Senior Expo 2027? Email your suggestions to planning@aeoa.org, subject line: Senior Expo 2027.
