Fort Wayne’s Linda Dunno Receives 2016 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service

https://youtu.be/MDAWEzCxTWI

Linda Dunno of Fort Wayne has been selected by AARP Indiana to receive the 2016 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service.  This award, which is named after AARP’s founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, is AARP’s most prestigious volunteer tribute that recognizes outstanding individuals who are sharing their experience, talents and skills to enrich the lives of others. Dunno was presented with the award at AARP Indiana’s annual volunteer celebration in Indianapolis.

“Linda is a passionate professional whose tireless work has increased AARP’s presence in her community where she’s provided older Hoosiers with the tools to turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities,” said AARP Indiana State Director Sarah Waddle. “She embodies AARP’s vision and mission and serves as an inspiration to other volunteers. AARP is only as strong as its volunteers and no one represents that strength better than Linda.”

Dunno, who is originally from Ohio and has lived in Indiana for six years, was a 911 director for 14 years before her retirement. In her time volunteering with AARP Indiana she has been a member of the state’s Executive Council and Legislative team. In her time on the Legislative team she has helped to pass the CARE Act in 2015 and Indiana’s new telemedicine law in the 2016 session.

Her local advocacy has also yielded results. Recently, the City of Fort Wayne enacted a Complete Streets policy largely due to Dunno’s efforts in convincing the city that more bike lanes, crosswalks, and medians will make both walking and driving safer for everyone.

“I’m one of these people who think that when you live in a community, and you see something, you need to do something about it,” Dunno said. “God’s given you talents, he’s giving you a reason to be on the earth and to sit around and do nothing, I don’t think is an option.

“Complete Streets is very near to my heart,” Dunno added. “Almost two years ago I lost my grandson who was five and half and handicapped. I saw the struggle that my kids and my grandson had at navigating streets and sidewalks in Fort Wayne. Having a resolution for Complete Streets – that’s for little Cohen. It not only helps people 50 and over, but people like him.”