Graham retains seat on Area 6 for Advisory Council

Moye Graham wears many hats in the Clarendon community and in the state at-large. He is on his third term as the Clarendon County GOP chairman, and also serves as chairman for the 6th District for the state GOP. Graham was reappointed recently to the South Carolina Advisory Council on Aging, and will once again represent Area 6. "That's the Santee Lynches Region, which consists of Clarendon, Sumter, Lee and Kershaw counties," Graham said. "I want to build a relationship with all or at least some of the programs that help the senior citizens in my area." Graham said the group is coordinated through Lt. Gov. Henry McMaster's Office. "We have a very big and rural area, with the main office in Sumter," said Graham. Graham said the advocacy group is focused on making sure "senior needs in South Carolina are met, whether their needs are at home or in nursing facilities." "South Carolina, as other states, has a growing aging population," Graham said. "We do not have near enough money or resources to staff and maintain what we have, and we are in dire need for more facilities for our seniors. That means not only more nursing and retirement facilities, but senior centers where they can socialize, maybe have lunch and maybe have activities like arts and crafts." Graham said "society is judged by the way they treat their old and bury their dead." "We need to strengthen the Meals on Wheels and recruit more volunteers," he said. "We have got to think ahead down the road, or we are going to be in trouble and that is my main purpose." Graham said the council meets quarterly, but also calls special meetings as needed. He said members attend events and meetings throughout the state held by the Office on Aging. "Or we go to events maybe from AARP, CVS and other groups catered toward senior activities and issues," Graham said. "There is always something going on and especially in our more populated areas of the state." Graham said there are 10 areas in the state, and there are a few at-large seats. He said McMaster - or the current lieutenant governor - approves appointments through consent of the state Senate. Gov. Nikki Haley has the ultimate signing authority for a council member's commission. "It is quite an honor, but also quite a responsibility to be a member," Graham said. "It is very rewarding, but at times very heart-wrenching."