AARP Hawaii is taking the debate about the future of Medicare and Social Security from Washington to Maui, so residents can have a voice.

“You’ve Earned a Say” events are slated for Monday, April 16, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Kula Community Center (register

at aarp.cvent.com/d/gcqlbc/4W) and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

at Maui Economic Opportunity in Wailuku (visit aarp.cvent.com/d/lcqlb4/4W to register).

The launch of “You’ve Earned a Say” coincides with the release of a national survey of adults that shows strong belief in the importance of Social Security and Medicare, yet lack of confidence in the programs being there throughout retirement.

Citizens have every right to be concerned, given the federal government’s out-of-control spending, bureaucrats’ readiness to cut social programs and the clear lack of leadership in Congress.

According to AARP, 96 percent of adults believe that Social Security is important to their financial security in retirement, but only about half (49 percent) believe it will be there for them throughout their senior years.

Ninety-eight percent of Americans surveyed believe Medicare is important to health in retirement, but just 54 percent believe the program will be running once their working days are done.

Sentiment holds true across political parties and age groups, with nearly all believing the programs are important in retirement.

More information about “You’ve Earned a Say” is available at www.earnedasay.org.

The Maui forums are free and open to the public. Call 1-877-926-8300 (toll-free) or register online.

With health care under fire and the presidency at stake this election year, help AARP send a message to Washington, D.C.