AARP Iowa Celebrating September as 'Make a Difference Month'

Seeking volunteers statewide to help Iowans live their best lives

Every September 11th since 2002, hundreds of thousands of people in the United States and across the world, have participated in the National Day of Service and Remembrance, a federally-recognized day of unity and charitable service. This year, AARP Iowa is honoring September as Make a Difference Month, and are seeking volunteers statewide to donate their time, skills, and passion to participate in a host of events and initiatives in the year ahead that will benefit thousands of Iowans in needs.

There are a variety of ways in which someone can volunteer with AARP Iowa:
• Fraud Watch: help to inform people about scams and identity theft
• Tax Aide: help older Iowans prepare and submit their taxes
• Advocate on policy issues like Medicare, Social Security and prescription drugs
• Instruct driver safety courses, with many locations all across Iowa
• Livable Communities: work on city planning issues, like expanding bike lanes and bike trails
• Be an ambassador for AARP at events, including festivals and the Iowa State Fair

“No matter your age or interests, AARP has something for everyone to get involved,” said AARP Iowa State President Chuck Betts, who is also a volunteer. “Whether it’s helping out at our Movies for Grown-ups, preparing tax returns for seniors, or leading a driver’s safety course, there are so many rewarding ways to give back to your local community.”

AARP Iow

a is hosting two free “Sip, Sample, Serve” happy hours in late September, one in Des Moines (Tuesday, Sept. 25, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., at Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens) and one in Cedar Rapids (Thursday, Sept. 27, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., at National Czech and Slovak Museum), where prospective volunteers can learn about the many ways they can get involved, while mingling with AARP staff and other volunteers. For more information or to register for one of the events, call 877-926-8300.

Advance training is always provided for new volunteers. General information about volunteering with AARP can be found at aarp.org/volunteer.