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The Aging Eighty Program was established in January 2023. The first celebration was held on April 7, 2023, at the Community Family Enrichment Center in Arkadelphia.
The inaugural theme was “The Clock is Still Ticking and We Are Still Kicking.” A total of 79 individuals, age 80 and older, were honored.
Each year, the Aging Eighty celebration has continued to grow in participation and impact.
In 2024, the theme was “Life is Worth Living — Celebrating With Joy.” The event was hosted at St. Paul AME Church in Arkadelphia, where 95 individuals were recognized.
The 2025 theme was “Aging Gracefully 80+.” This celebration was held at Macedonia Baptist Church in Sparkman. The oldest honoree was 98 years old, and 100 individuals were recognized. In May 2025, the organization received its 501(c)(3) designation, allowing all individual donations to become tax‑deductible.
For 2026, Aging Eighty will recognize 112 individuals at its upcoming event, which will be held at St. Mark AME Church, 1116 Highway 79, Saturday, July 18, at 2 p.m. in Thornton. The theme for 2025 will be continuously used henceforth.
Each year, honorees receive:
- A complimentary dinner
- A souvenir booklet
- A certificate of recogntion
Aging Eighty currently has four sponsors, 13 donors, and 16 committee members. The Aging Eighty participants come from eight counties: Calhoun, Clark, Dallas, Polk, Ouachita, Saline, Cleveland and Pulaski. The organization has received congratulatory letters from governors, state senators, mayors, and city officials.
It is truly inspiring to see so many individuals age 80 and older gathering for fellowship, encouragement, recognition, and a shared meal.
“I am deeply grateful for everyone who has supported and participated in this special occasion over the past three years,” gracefully stated Mrs. Bobbie Walker.
For additional information, Mrs. Walker may be contacted at 870-678-3067.