Our History
![Ollie Randall, an NCOA founder and leader in the field of aging, is holding an award for her singular and outstanding contributions toward advancing the cause of aging.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets-us-01.kc-usercontent.com%3A443%2Fffacfe7d-10b6-0083-2632-604077fd4eca%2Fc5ca520a-d24e-4da2-841b-3449cea06fc7%2FOllie-Randall-RT_Hero_2020-12_725x613.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
Starting in 1950, we’ve walked beside generations of Americans. Perhaps you didn’t see us. But we were there—quietly making life better as we age.
We were the first national voice for older adults. We helped end mandatory retirement. We secured Medicare, Medicaid, and the Older Americans Act.
We fortified the local organizations that serve older adults every day. And we built digital tools that arm older adults with knowledge.
The timelines below offer a glimpse into our history and accomplishments.
Leadership Awards
Our historical leadership awards honor highly dedicated leaders and organizations who ensure that every person can age with health and financial security.
![For nearly a decade, the Walmart Foundation has partnered with NCOA to increase enrollment of older adults into the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). With Walmart’s support, NCOA has regranted over $9 million to community agencies that have assisted over 239,000 older adults to apply for SNAP.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets-us-01.kc-usercontent.com%3A443%2Fffacfe7d-10b6-0083-2632-604077fd4eca%2F6f4bfb69-5b53-4673-b4d3-1459c7398a15%2FNCOA_Trailblazers-in-Aging-2023_Walmart_Public-Private-Partnership-Award.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
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If you have a question or would like to speak to aging expert, please contact us at press@ncoa.org.