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City expands senior outreach with weekly 'Senior Scoop', TV programming and print magazine
Summary
O'Fallon's communications director described a strategy of weekly e-newsletters, a dedicated senior section, O'Fallon TV morning programming and a quarterly magazine to reach older residents; city staff said they track engagement and will continue adjusting outreach to improve access.
Tony, O'Fallon's communications director, briefed the Senior Resident Advisory Committee on April 13 about several outreach initiatives aimed at seniors: a weekly e-newsletter distributed to about 8,800 inboxes each Friday at 11 a.m., a new regular 'Senior Scoop' section in that newsletter, a 'Seniors at Seven' morning slot on O'Fallon TV, and a quarterly city magazine mailed to roughly 50,000 households with a dedicated seniors page.
Tony said staff use web pages, TV bulletin boards, social media and direct mail to reach residents and that analytics guide what programming draws interest. He noted the communications team highlights senior programming, recreation events and important updates such as the upcoming utility tax rebate. The team also plans to allocate half to a full page in the quarterly magazine to community resources for seniors, including 2-1-1 and Community Council information.
Tony warned that HUD funding cycles are uncertain and that the city is currently planning with available 2026 allocations while advocates continue to push for funding for 2027. He said the communications and grants teams coordinate to ensure residents know how to access programs when funding opens.
When Council member Boyer asked how to sign up for the e-newsletter, Tony said residents can subscribe via a "Notify Me" button on the city website and will then receive the Friday distribution.
The committee welcomed the outreach plans and encouraged continued coordination between communications and social services staff to reach seniors who lack internet access or require in-person assistance.
