AARP Georgia Celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Month, Honoring Local Changemakers

April marked Volunteer Appreciation Month and AARP Georgia proudly celebrated the commitment and impact of its more than 650 volunteers across the state. These volunteers dedicate their time, talent, and passion to empowering communities and individuals, especially those 50 and older.

Nationally, AARP is supported by more than 58,000 volunteers, and Georgia's dedicated contingent plays a vital role in fulfilling the organization's mission — helping people choose how they live as they age. From advocating for laws and policy changes and teaching safe driving to fighting fraud and organizing food drives, these volunteers embody the spirit of service and community.

“I can’t emphasize this enough — our volunteers are an amazing, powerful force,” said Michelle Becote-Jackson, Vice President of AARP’s Office of Volunteer Engagement. “They are the ripple effect of AARP’s impact, carrying our message authentically, expanding our reach, and deepening our relationships at the local level.”

This year, AARP Georgia volunteers made their voices heard in powerful ways. Nearly 100 volunteers joined staff for Lobby Day at the Georgia State Capitol to advocate for a retirement savings bill, later introduced as Peach State Saves (Senate Bill 226). In Augusta, volunteers met with U.S. Congressman Rick Allen to encourage support for the Credit for Caring Act, which he later co-sponsored — a key legislative win for caregivers nationwide.

In addition to advocacy, Georgia volunteers organized holiday toy and food drives, served as trained tax aides, and led important community workshops.

In 2024, across the nation, in Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP volunteers donated nearly 9 million service hours, valued at $280 million. Their efforts led to:

• More than 6,300 community events engaging over 600,000 people

• $1 billion in savings for older adults through fraud prevention and tax assistance

• Enhanced safety for 20 million drivers and expanded digital literacy for thousands of older adults

• Over 750 advocacy wins at local, state, and federal levels.

“This April, and every month, AARP Georgia proudly salutes the everyday heroes who give selflessly, proving that the spirit of volunteerism is alive and thriving in the Peach State,” said AARP Georgia State Director, Vanessa J. Payne.

For those inspired to give back, AARP Georgia welcomes new volunteers year-round. Opportunities range from event planning and advocacy to mentoring and public speaking. To learn more or sign up, visit aarp.org/volunteer, or for tax aide volunteers, aarp.org/taxaide.