For nine decades, Social Security has been a stable and reliable foundation of retirement security for millions of Americans—and we believe it must remain that way for generations to come.
We’re excited to announce that seven organizations throughout Iowa will receive a combined $75,506 in 2025 AARP Community Challenge grants. The grants are part of AARP’s $4.2 million commitment to fund 383 quick-action projects nationwide aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages.
Advocating on behalf of Iowans age 50+ and giving you a voice at the State Capitol is a top priority for AARP Iowa. During the 2025 legislative session, we engaged on several bills with wide-ranging impacts related to housing, consumer protections, utilities, and more.
Tim Kelley spent most of his engineering career in California, Florida and abroad as a Walt Disney “imagineer.” But when grandchildren brought him to Mount Vernon, Iowa, this 71-year-old Hidden Gem also dreamed up some magical touches for the town’s holiday “Magical Night.”
AARP Iowa is working on a number of issues to improve the lives of Iowans through advocacy and our many engagement programs. Take action on the issues that matter to you.
Medicare changes every year, which means it can get a little complicated when trying to understand what’s new for you. Join us for a free webinar where we’ll discuss the key takeaways from this year’s Medicare changes and what they may mean for your benefits.
Cheryl Tevis of Pilot Mound came from a long line of farmers. Now 71, she charted a different route for herself, staying close to agriculture as a writer but also helping women advance in the world of ag. This October Hidden Gem helped found and now leads an Iowa volunteer group dedicated to women supporting women in both agribusiness and farming.
On a snowy night 25 years ago, Ruth Mwangangi arrived in Iowa from Kenya. Grateful for the warm welcome she received, she’s continued ever since to pay it forward, donating thousands of volunteer hours helping other newcomers or those with special needs both appreciate their differences and succeed in their new lives. Discover why this 52-year Ankeny woman believes everyone should volunteer.
Linda Smith vividly remembers her first powerlifting meet in late 2018. “I was terrified,” she says. But this 56-year-old Oxford mother of nine and grandmother of nine loved the competition. Since then, our August Hidden Gem has set new records for the deadlift in her age and weight class and still has more goals to tackle.