AARP Seeks Nominees for Exceptional Volunteer Award

AARP is now accepting nominations for its 2024 Washington Andrus Award for Community Service, which honors 50+ Washingtonians who are sharing their experience, talent, and skills to enrich the lives of their community members. 

“AARP Washington is excited to shine a light on 50+ Washingtonians who are using a lifetime of experience to make a difference in the lives around them,” said Marguerite Ro, AARP Washington State Director. 

In 2023, AARP Washington recognized Bill Meyer of Spokane, who – after a being diagnosed with Parkinson’s - went on the offensive and used his love of the outdoors to help others. 

Bill Meyer of Spokane was recognized by AARP Washington for his work providing people with Parkinson's the ability to participate in outdoor activities

 

In 2016, he founded PasstoPass, a non-profit which provides opportunities for people with Parkinson’s Disease to participate in supported multi-day backpacking trips that build confidence, cultivate community, nourish wellbeing and minimize symptoms through exercise.

Nominate a hero in your community. AARP Washington Andrus Award for Community Service nominees must meet the following eligibility requirements:

·         Nominee must be 50 years or older.

• The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based:
  • Must have been performed on a volunteer basis, without pay.  Volunteers receiving small stipends to cover the costs associated with the volunteer activity are eligible.

o   Must reflect AARP’s vision and purpose.

o   Must be replicable and provide inspiration for others to volunteer.

·         Partisan political achievements, accomplishments or service may not be considered.

·         Couples or partners who perform service together are eligible; however, teams are not eligible.

·         Previous Andrus Award recipients are not eligible.

·         Volunteers serving on the Andrus Award selection committee are not eligible.

·         AARP staff members are not eligible.

·         This is not a posthumous award.

The recipient will be honored at a service celebration ceremony and have an opportunity to bestow a $2,000 donation to a nonprofit organization of their choice. Selected charities are subject to AARP review and approval.

Nominations can be made by visiting www.aarp.org/andrusaward or email aarpwa@aarp.org for a nomination form. The application deadline is July 15, 2024. Nominations will be evaluated by the Washington office based on how the volunteer’s work has improved the community, reflected AARP’s vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers. The award recipient will be announced in early fall.

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service is an annual awards program developed to honor individuals whose service is a unique and valuable contribution to society.  Last year, AARP recognized 49 outstanding individuals and couples from around the country.