Louisville Volunteer, Charity Win Big

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George Higgins – who has spent years helping low-income seniors in Louisville – is the 2014 winner of the AARP Kentucky Andrus Award for Community Service.

And Project Warm, a non-profit where Higgins spends much of his time and energy, is a big winner too – earning a $2,500 check from AARP Kentucky.

AARP Kentucky honored George Higgins today during a breakfast at Project Warm.  The Andrus Award – named after AARP founder Ethel Percy Andrus – is given to outstanding older Kentuckians who are making a powerful difference in their communities through volunteer work..

“We are thrilled to recognize George Higgins with the most celebrated volunteer award given by AARP,” said AARP Kentucky State Director Ron Bridges.  “George has spent an incredible amount of time and energy giving back to his community.  His work embodies the motto of our founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus -- “to serve, not to be served.”

Over the past twenty years, George has volunteered his time and skills for Project Warm, Habitat for Humanity and Repair Affair. He works to improve the lives of low-income seniors by making energy improvements and repairs to their homes. Repairs include repairing and weather stripping doors, sealing drafty areas, replacing missing window glass, furnishing furnace filters and making wall, ceiling and floor repairs.

George works with a crew of volunteers to perform the hands on work.  In fact, George has recruited many of those volunteers with his cheerful attitude and desire to help those in need. He is a natural born leader with the skills to recognize and carry out needed repairs.

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service recognizes members and volunteers who, through volunteer service, are significantly enhancing the lives of individuals age 50 and older.

“George Higgins’ work in the Louisville community embodies the spirit of the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, said Jim Kimbrough, AARP Kentucky state president. “His incredible devotion to service can inspire us all.”

Recipients across the nation were chosen for their ability to enhance the lives of AARP members and prospective members, improve communities and inspire others to volunteer.