As the U.S. Virgin Islands continues to experience a rapidly aging population, AARP Virgin Islands, in partnership with the Government Employees’ Retirement System of the Virgin Islands, is offering a free, virtual Financial Wellness Workshop Series to help residents plan ahead and prepare for the financial realities of retirement.
According to U.S. Census data, over one-fifth of the Virgin Islands population is already 65 or older, and demographic projections show this proportion will continue to rise over the next decade as thousands of residents approach retirement age. This shift emphasizes the increasing importance of early, informed financial planning to help individuals protect their assets, understand retirement income options, and make confident long-term decisions.
The AARP VI–GERS Financial Wellness Workshop Series provides trusted, easy-to-understand guidance on key topics, including estate planning, retirement savings strategies, tax planning, and account ownership. Each session is virtual, interactive, and focused on real-life planning, with clear takeaways participants can apply right away—regardless of where they are on their financial journey.
“Financial planning is no longer optional—it’s essential,” said Troy De Chabert-Schuster, State Director of AARP Virgin Islands. “As more Virgin Islanders move closer to retirement, our partnership with GERS helps ensure residents have access to reliable information and practical tools that support long-term financial security and peace of mind.”
All workshops are held virtually at 5:30 p.m. AST and run throughout 2026, covering a wide range of topics including legal documents and estate planning, retirement timing, tax planning, and hands-on demonstrations of AARP planning tools. One registration provides access to the full series, allowing participants to attend the sessions most relevant to their needs.
The series is open to adults at every stage—whether just beginning to plan, actively preparing for retirement, or already retired and seeking to make informed financial decisions.
Why This Matters Now
The U.S. Virgin Islands has one of the fastest-aging populations in the region, with more than 20% of residents already age 65 or older.
Over the next decade, many more Virgin Islanders will reach retirement age, increasing the need for clear guidance on savings, income planning, taxes, and estate decisions.
Financial decisions made before and during retirement can have long-term impacts on stability, healthcare access, and quality of life.
Free, trusted education—offered in partnership by AARP VI and GERS—helps residents make informed choices without pressure to purchase products or services.
To learn more about the Financial Wellness Workshop Series and view upcoming sessions, visit: https://events.aarp.org/2026VIFinancialWellness
