Funding Opportunities, New Issue Brief, & Event Updates (May 2026)

New Brief: How State Aging Dashboards Are Driving Accountability and Action

West Health’s latest brief, Data in Action: State Aging Dashboards as Tools for Accountability, highlights how states are using interactive data dashboards to turn Multisector Plans for Aging (MPAs) into measurable, actionable strategies. Featuring examples from California, Colorado, Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee, the brief explores how dashboards can support accountability, equity, cross-sector coordination and long-term planning across the lifespan. The analysis also underscores the growing importance of standardized, data-driven tools like West Health’s National Aging Readiness Dashboard to support benchmarking and policy innovation nationwide.

Learn more and access the brief:

READY Communities Grant Opportunity

The READY Communities Funding Collaborative is a new public-philanthropic pilot grantmaking program sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA), coordinated by Grantmakers In Aging (GIA), and supported by Pennsylvania’s philanthropic organizations. The Collaborative will align public and philanthropic resources to support Pennsylvania’s communities in becoming accessible, inclusive, vibrant places for older residents, people living with dementia, and neighbors of all ages. 

The READY Communities Funding Collaborative is accepting applications for grants of $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000 to support innovative projects serving older adults and people living with dementia across Pennsylvania.

Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local and county governments, and coalitions with a fiscal sponsor. Projects must align with Pennsylvania’s multisector plan on aging, Aging Our Way, PA.

Learn more and Apply by June 12

Building a Stronger Future for Aging in New Jersey

Last week’s Lifelong Strong New Jersey conference — hosted by New Jersey Advocates for Aging Well — highlighted the growing momentum behind Multisector Plans for Aging (MPAs) and the importance of preparing communities for an aging population.

Amy Herr (West Health) and Erin Westphal (The SCAN Foundation) discussed how MPAs can help address the evolving needs of older New Jerseyans now and in the future.

From healthcare and housing to transportation and social connection, these collaborative statewide strategies are designed to ensure people can age with dignity, independence, and support. West Health is proud to support efforts that make New Jersey a great place to grow up — and grow older.

Learn more about how states are preparing for the future of aging at:

Upcoming Events 

USAging Answers on Aging 2026 Conference & Tradeshow

July 18–21, 2026 | San Diego, CA

Don’t miss the USAging Answers on Aging Annual Conference and Tradeshow, the largest gathering of aging network professionals in the United States. This four-day event brings together Area Agencies on Aging, tribal aging programs, policymakers, service providers, and community partners to share insights, explore new strategies, and build meaningful connections that support older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers nationwide. With more than 100 sessions focused on innovative practices in advocacy, caregiving, housing, transportation, workforce development, social engagement, and more, attendees will gain practical tools and new ideas to strengthen aging services in their communities. Whether you’re looking to enhance program delivery, expand your professional network, or stay current on national trends and policy, this is a must-attend event.

Register here:

W43) Multi-Sector Plans: From Idea to Implementation to Impact
Sunday, July 19, 2026 | 10:30–11:30 AM

This session highlights strategies for turning Multi-Sector Plans into action through stronger leadership, cross-sector collaboration and effective systems that support older adults and communities.

Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People

ADvancing States 2026 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Conference 

August 23–27, 2026 | Baltimore Marriott Waterfront | Baltimore, MD

Save the date for the 2026 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Conference, ADvancing States’ premier national event focused on strengthening long-term services and supports (LTSS) for people of all ages and abilities. This annual conference brings together state, federal, and local policymakers, along with leaders who administer, manage, and deliver HCBS programs, to share innovative practices and policies that improve state systems.

Attendees can expect in-depth sessions, peer learning opportunities, and meaningful discussions on advancing equitable, sustainable HCBS systems nationwide. Registration will open in Spring 2026, and interested participants can sign up now to receive conference updates.

Sign up for updates

Contact us

For questions, comments, or suggestions related to MPAs or the newsletter, please do not hesitate to contact us at MPA@westhealth.org.