Hosting a S.T.O.P. Senior Frauds and Scams Presentation

About S.T.O.P. Senior Frauds and Scams:  Thanks to a grant from the Wisconsin Consumer Antifraud Fund at the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Eras Senior Network has researched common frauds and scams targeting the senior population. Since June of 2016, trained Eras staff, Board Members, and community volunteers have given 43 presentations to nearly 2,000 seniors and caregivers in the Waukesha area, helping our seniors become better equipped to recognize and respond to scams. All attendees receive a resource folder filled with information on the best contacts to communicate with to prevent or report a scam.

Audiences: We have presented to senior living communities, libraries, congregations, and civic groups. This presentation has information designed for seniors and/or a caregiver of a senior.

Duration: Each presentation is approximately 45 – 60 minutes in length. During that time, we typically cover 5 different types of frauds and scams. The presenter and other volunteers will arrive 30 minutes prior to the presentation start time to set up and pass out materials.

Attendee Minimum: Out of respect for our presenter’s time, we require a minimum of 10 attendees at your presentation. We request that you take RSVPs so we have a good idea of how many resource folders to bring. A final attendee headcount is due 2 days prior to the presentation date.

Equipment: Presentations are given using a PowerPoint presentation. We require the use of a projector, laptop, and screen. If you do not have a projector or a laptop, we can provide this – however, we cannot provide a screen. If you have a blank wall, we can project our presentation on that. Additionally, use of a microphone or podium is helpful if you have access to these. The use of one or two tables and a few chairs may be requested as well.

Topics:  You may choose 5 topics to be covered during your 60 minute presentation. Topic choices are:

• Grandparent scams
• Telemarketing scams
• Funeral scams
• Sweepstakes scams
• Online/Email scams
• Medical/Medicare scams
• Investment scams
• Power of Attorney scams
• Charity scams

Audience Questions: Our presenters will leave a few minutes at the end for questions. Our presenters are considered a resource and not “experts”. They will help the attendees navigate the resource folder which contains information on professionals and agencies who can further help them with questions or situations regarding frauds and scams.

Accessibility and Assistance: Please let us know if your location is accessible. One of our presenters cannot comfortably climb stairs, so understanding the accessibility of your space helps with our planning. Additionally, this presenter requires assistance lifting materials in and out of her car when an Eras volunteer is not joining her. Your assistance is much appreciated!

If you have additional questions about our S.T.O.P. Senior Frauds and Scams program, please contact Heather Uzowulu, Development Manager at (262) 522-2404 or Heather.Uzowulu@Eras.org.