Arizona’s David Likness on Volunteering at the AARP Arizona Tucson Information Center

David Likness of Tucson, Arizona, is a South Dakota native. He attended Northwestern University’s evening MBA program while working full-time. Post-graduation, Likness relocated to Saudi Arabia and worked in the financial industry overseas for 30 years.

He retired in 2001 and decided to move back to the states. After settling in to his new-found home in Arizona, Likness knew he wanted to find a volunteer opportunity that would allow him to work with mature adults.

“I noticed an article in the local newspaper featuring AARP Foundation Work Search Program, and I was drawn to it,” said Likness. “I wanted to do something in retirement that would allow me to contribute to society in a way I was unable to in my career.”

Likness joined the AARP Arizona volunteer team in 2003, and became the Volunteer Program Administrator for AARP Foundation Work Search. Eventually, he assumed an additional volunteer role, becoming the Local Coordinator at the AARP Arizona Tucson Information Center.

“David is an essential part of our volunteer team in Tucson,” says Maria Ramirez-Trillo, AARP Arizona associate state director. “He was instrumental in the expansion of the Tucson Information Center in 2006, and helped orchestrate the inclusion of the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program at the center. He’s a terrific volunteer.”

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program provides free tax return services for those who are low to moderate income. The program has a special focus on seniors and is open to AARP members and non-members alike.

“The Tax-Aide site at the information center is one of the few that is open year-round,” says Likness. “During the off-season, the IRS will oftentimes refer people in the community with tax return issues to our site and we help resolve the issues that are within our scope of practice. It’s a great feeling knowing that we get that kind of recognition for the work that we do.”

Likness’ favorite part of volunteering with AARP Arizona is the feeling he gets helping the vulnerable and aging population. “Volunteering with AARP Arizona allows me to interact with a wide range of people, younger and older, with similar interests as myself,” says Likness. “It’s amazing what a group of dedicated volunteers can do, and I’m happy to be one of them.”

For more information on volunteering, please, click here.