Princeton Rotary Volunteer Receives 2022 Andrus Award

Princeton Volunteer Receives Prestigious Volunteer Award for Dedication and Commitment to Community

Albert "Al" Brunelle of Princeton has been selected by AARP Kentucky, the nonprofit organization for people 50 and older, to receive the 2022 AARP Kentucky Andrus Award for Community Service -- the Association’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service. Mr. Brunelle is designating his Andrus Award check of $2,000 to The Rotary Foundation.

AARP Kentucky selected Mr. Brunelle for his remarkable service which has greatly benefited his community, supported AARP’s vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers. Al became an important part of the Long-Term Recovery efforts following the deadly 2021 December tornadoes in Western Kentucky. His tireless work and endless hours volunteering were instrumental in starting the Rotary District 6710 grants process for local disaster victims. The grants were available in range of $10,000 each.  Mr. Brunelle spearheaded the applications for the local Rotary club to receive over $140,000 in funds to support families with furniture, appliances, a special needs bed, and more. Not only are these grants supporting families, targeted to youth and helping them cope by providing books about disaster so they can learn and grow from the experiences they’ve been through.

Princeton Rotary Club’s Executive Secretary Melissa Earnest nominated Mr. Brunelle for the Andrus Award. According to Melissa, “He impresses upon everyone how important serving others is as it helps lift the community and makes it a better place to live and raise a family. I just don’t know how anyone can impact more residents with these ideas and gifts than Al. Of course, he would not take credit, but instead would point to the committee or the group or to his church members. He often works in the background.”

“This award acts as a symbol to the public that we can all work together for positive social change,” says AARP State President Charlotte Whittaker, AARP Kentucky Executive Council. “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions volunteers make to their communities, neighbors, and the programs they serve.”

Hear more about Mr. Brunelle and his volunteer service in West Kentucky from WPKY, HERE.

Andrus Award recipients across the nation were chosen for their ability to enhance the lives of AARP members and prospective members, improve the community in or for which the work was performed, and inspire others to volunteer.