Erica Michalowski
Erica Michalowski has been with AARP CT since 2003. Since that time she has worked on AARP priorities that serve the 50+ population and their families in the area of education and outreach. Topics include consumer protection, health disparities,long term care, financial security, caregiving, mobility, retirement security, aging in place initiatives and livable communities. Erica currently serves on the Steering Committee for the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT and chair of their Consumer Fraud Action team on behalf of AARP CT. In addition, Erica represents AARP CT on the Consumer Law Project for Elders Advisory Council. Prior to coming to AARP, Erica worked in state government serving four years at the Elderly Services Division of the state Department of Social Services, where she was a field representative. There Erica worked to develop statewide programs like the Grandparents As Parents Support Program (GAPS), managed grants for the Senior Community Services Employment Program (Title V), and Title II - Nutrition, Home & Community Services, to name a few. Prior to her work in state government, Erica gained experience in the needs of older adults, their families and communities by working as a Per Diem Social Worker for an urban-based hospital while also serving as a community organizer developing programs for homebound seniors. Her work has always been in the area of aging and promotion of volunteer service. Erica earned her master’s in Social Work from the University of CT, School of Social Work, majoring in Community Organizing with a minor in Public Policy. Her education also earned her a Certification in Aging studies. Her work in the field of Social Work continues as she mentors students currently working towards their graduate studies in coordination with the University of Connecticut, School of Social Work. A lifetime resident of CT, Erica serves her professional and personal life in the quest to help others find their place in life, so they can live with dignity and purpose in a setting of their choice. She expanded her professional reach joining the University of Connecticut, School of Social Work as a part-time adjunct faculty member and has also taught at Quinnipiac University School of Social Work offering lectures on aging issues and inter-professional education models. In 2018, Erica joined an esteemed group of academics (CT Gerontology Consortium) focusing on offering opportunities for careers in aging among other issues related to the field. Erica and her husband enjoy exploring their passions together by giving time to causes and organizations focused on women’s health issues, healthy living options, navigating caregiving and cancer/lymphedema research and education. Their passion for the sea offers time for reflection and inspiration as they face bright spots and challenges head on together.
