Former AHA VP Named AARP Colorado State Director

AARP is pleased to announce the appointment of Sara Schueneman as state director for AARP Colorado. Schueneman joined AARP earlier this year.

After 20 years at the American Heart Association where she most recently served as the senior vice president, Colorado and executive director of Denver, Schueneman said she is thrilled to continue her focus on issues that are relevant to the 650,000 AARP members in Colorado, as well as all older Coloradans and their families.

She brings an extensive background as a nonprofit executive who specializes in moving business and mission objectives forward. Schueneman has extensive experience driving the impact of a national organization. Her career has spanned multiple states and all size markets. 

“Sara brings experience in advocacy, communications and community and volunteer engagement – along with passion for mission-driven work and success as a leader and innovator in a large and complex organization,” said Will Phillips, AARP regional vice president. “We are very pleased Sara has joined the AARP family.”

Schueneman has jumped right in by joining the Age Friendly Communities subcommittee of the Governor’s Commission. She also is advocating on proposed legislation currently being heard at the Colorado Legislature concerning age discrimination in the workplace and ways to break down food insecurity within our communities. Schueneman said it is imperative that AARP leads the way in providing real answers and ensuring all Coloradans can live with dignity as we age.  

“We all deserve to know what is happening in our communities and how it will impact older adults and their families,” she said. “I’m so fortunate to be at the forefront of these issues and to fight on behalf of our members, as well as all Coloradans.”

In addition to advocating on behalf of our communities, AARP Colorado has many quality programs and offerings, including the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, which helps thousands file tax returns; financial resilience, which includes the passage of the Colorado Secure Savings Plan, a portable IRA for workers whose employers are unable to provide 401K benefits; and ElderWatch to avoid fraud and fight identity theft.

AARP Colorado also offers fun in-person and virtual activities, including discounts on events, the Botanic Gardens, musicals and live theater, as well as Movies for Grown Ups, just to name a few.

Schueneman has received many accolades and honors during her career. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Sweet Briar College in Virginia.

_Angela Cortez is AARP Colorado director of communications