AARP Georgia Recognizes Perry Resident with its Most Prestigious Volunteer Award

AARP Georgia recently named Walon Smith of Perry, Georgia, the recipient of the 2025 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious state honor for volunteerism and community impact.

Since 2019, Smith has been a volunteer tutor with AARP Foundation Experience Corps at Centerville Elementary School in Houston County. Through this program, he provides one-on-one reading support to students for 30 weeks each school year, helping them build literacy skills and confidence. A retired insurance executive, Smith became passionate about childhood literacy after learning about its lifelong impact at a Georgia Chamber of Commerce conference.

His leadership extends beyond the classroom. Smith actively engages his Rotary Club and local community networks to raise awareness about the importance of reading proficiency by third grade—encouraging others to join the cause. His advocacy has inspired similar volunteer efforts in neighboring schools and districts, and he has even invited Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods to visit Houston County to highlight this vital work.

“AARP deeply values the spirit of volunteerism and the tremendous impact volunteers like Walon have in strengthening their communities,” said Vanessa J. Payne, AARP Georgia State Director.

AARP Georgia staff, Executive Council, and volunteers will recognize Smith at a formal award ceremony later this year.

AARP annually honors individuals and couples nationwide who make a powerful difference in their communities through volunteer service. These individuals and couples reflect the dedication and vision of AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus.