Nominate a Volunteer Who Makes a Difference in your Community

Every year AARP Kansas recognizes an outstanding volunteer in our state with The Andrus Award. The Andrus Award for Community Service honors volunteers who  spark change and improve their communities one act at a time. The award honors the spirit of AARP’s founder, Ethel Percy Andrus, who started AARP when she found a retired educator in need.

The Kansas recipient in 2015 was Robert J. "Bob" Roberts, who is an AARP advocacy volunteer and a member of the Pittsburg AARP chapter. Upon his retirement as a professor at Pittsburg State University, Roberts became active with the Habitat for Humanity program and was one of the founding members of the Crawford County chapter.  Non AARP volunteers are also eligible to win the award.

According to Dr. Andrus, “It is only in the giving of oneself to others that we truly live. … The human contribution is the essential ingredient.” Recognition of those whose passion for service – who share their human contribution – is the force behind the Andrus Award.

Thousands of Kansans contribute their time, talents, skills and abilities to make a positive impact in their communities. If you know one of these inspirational volunteers, please nominate him or her for the 2016 Andrus Award for Community Service.

“I encourage you to take a few moments to nominate an exceptional volunteer you know for AARP’s most prestigious volunteer award,” says AARP Kansas Director Maren Turner. “AARP Kansas is proud to recognize the thousands of people who make our lives better every day through volunteerism and service.”

Submissions will be evaluated by AARP Kansas based on how the volunteer’s work has improved the community, helped to achieve social change and inspired other volunteers. You can view other eligibility guidelines here.

The application deadline is June 3, 2016 so don’t delay in submitting your nomination for someone whose work you greatly admire! The award recipient will be announced in early fall. For questions, contact ksaarp@aarp.org.