In communities across Texas, advocacy often begins with a simple question: “How can we make life better for the people around us?” For Eric and Carol Hammersen, that question has become a calling. Their work within the Texas Silver Haired Legislature reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that older Texans are not only heard, but represented with strength, clarity, and compassion.

Eric and Carol bring a blend of experience, determination, and heart to the issues facing seniors today—healthcare access, transportation challenges, and the need for stronger support systems across rural and urban communities alike. Their leadership reminds us that meaningful change doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when everyday Texans step forward, get involved, and lend their voices to the conversations shaping our future.

In yesterday’s episode of TSHL 101, Gary Gerstenhaber and Gary Emmert sat down with Eric and Carol to explore the motivations behind their advocacy, the resolutions they champion, and the impact they hope to make for older adults across the state. Their insights highlight not only the challenges ahead, but the opportunities for Texans to stand together and strengthen the communities they call home.

Texas needs you. Whether it’s volunteering locally, supporting senior initiatives, or simply staying informed, every Texan has a role to play. This is an open invitation for listeners to join the effort—because when more voices come to the table, better solutions follow.

As we continue this conversation next week, we encourage you to learn more about the Texas Silver Haired Legislature at TSHL.org, and to join us every Tuesday at 6:15pm for a new episode of TSHL 101. Together, we can help build a stronger, more supportive Texas for older adults across our state.