Vince Giaccone Named 2024 AARP Louisiana Andrus Award Winner

AARP Louisiana is proud to announce Vince Giaccone as the recipient of the 2024 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the organization’s highest honor, which recognizes individuals who exemplify a life of service and make lasting contributions to their communities.

Giaccone, a veteran and devoted community leader, has consistently gone above and beyond to support those in need throughout Zachary and the surrounding areas. As the founder of "GLOVES," a volunteer group at Zachary United Methodist Church, he leads efforts to support seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities by building ramps, making home repairs, and assisting with everyday tasks such as gardening and home maintenance. Following the devastating 2016 flood, he guided his team in cleaning out homes and helping restore hope to affected families.

 In addition to his work with GLOVES, Giaccone has a passion for honoring veterans. He launched a special initiative to make and deliver quilts featuring the military emblems of veterans at the local VA hospital. Each month, he delivers these quilts to veterans on their birthdays, providing both comfort and gratitude to those who have served.

“Giaccone’s tireless dedication to his community and his deep compassion for others exemplify the very best of volunteerism,” said Alfred Mason, AARP Louisiana state president. “Through his leadership, he has made a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals, while also inspiring others to get involved and give back.”

“Giaccone personifies AARP’s mission to empower people to live their best lives as they age. His contributions to his community are a shining example of how one person’s efforts can make a lasting impact,” said Denise Bottcher, AARP Louisiana state director.

 Giaccone will be formally recognized on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 11 a.m. at the Zachary Food Pantry, located at 5640 Rollins Rd, Zachary, LA 70791, a volunteer-run organization where he has dedicated countless service hours. The pantry will receive a $1,000 donation on his behalf.

Giaccone will be honored on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 11 a.m. at the Zachary Food Pantry, located at 5640 Rollins Rd, Zachary, LA 70791, an organization where he has dedicated countless hours of service. The pantry will receive a $1,000 donation from AARP on his behalf.

For media inquiries, contact LaTonya Scott at lsscott@aarp.org or (225) 252-1192.