Interested In Becoming a LEAD Volunteer? Help Drive AARP's Mission

Become a leader in your community, representing the interests of the 50+ population by advocating for social change, building strong networks, and driving AARP’s mission forward as a LEAD Volunteer.

Listen: and learn about AARP’s work. Pay attention to the needs and feedback from the community.
Empower: Feel empowered and supported by AARP staff so you can be successful and grow.
Advocate: Represent and promote the interests of the 50+ community and make meaningful change for the better.
Deliver: Achieve impactful outcomes that advance AARP’s social mission and priorities.

LEADs are AARP Volunteer Leaders in their regions of the state. Each region has two LEADs assigned to it who work together to move AARP’s mission forward. They get to do things like: help lobby elected officials on policy initiatives, host educational workshops, or engage in voter education efforts (and so much more). They are invested in the work of AARP, enjoy working with people, and are interested in creating a sense of community with purpose!

You will have the chance to work with MASO (Massachusetts State Office) staff in your region to identify opportunities for us to spread AARP’s message. You’ll have the chance to meet like-minded people and get them involved in our work.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to participate in virtual updates with LEADs across the state. Not only are these opportunities to share successes and learn new strategies but it will help shape our work in every corner of the Commonwealth.

Come be part of a team dedicated to making Massachusetts better for all people, families, and generations!

Qualifications:

• Commitment to the goals and priorities of AARP.
• Ability to inspire and encourage others to become involved in projects, events, and activities.
• Ability to collaborate with other community organizations around AARP priority issues.
• Strong sense of inclusivity and a commitment to diversity.
• Ability to work in a non-partisan manner; may not concurrently hold a leadership role in a political party
• Bilingual preferred, but not required.

Roles/Duties:

• Be one of the two “go to people” in your area. Work together with your Co-LEAD.
• Build up a strong team (of between 5 to 10 people) to attend events, public meetings, and other outreach or educational opportunities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with your volunteer team, councils on aging, local leaders, and other partner organizations in your area.
• Be supported and partnered with MASO staff to create goals for outreach and planning for Be the Change (local volunteer learning opportunities) events, as well as overall work in your area.
• Become an AARP e-advocate and participate in email action alerts.
• Communicate regularly with MASO staff and quarterly with other regional LEAD volunteers to achieve local and statewide success.
• Enjoy working with AARP Massachusetts and believe in helping your community!

Benefits

• Training: A variety of trainings will be provided (such as on leadership and communication) by our National office to enhance personal and professional growth.
• Reimbursement: Expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with AARP policy.
• Recognition: AARP knows that our volunteers are our life blood. We go above and beyond to recognize and appreciate our volunteers with public acknowledgement, celebrations, awards, growth opportunities, and reimbursements for travel through our volunteer portal.
• Altruism/ Joy of Giving: The intrinsic reward of helping others and contributing to the greater good.
• Making a Difference: The satisfaction of knowing your efforts are positively impacting the community.
• Creating Change: Being a catalyst for positive change and seeing the tangible results of your work.
• Mental Stimulation: Volunteering keeps the mind active and engaged, which is important for cognitive health.
• Combating Loneliness: Engaging with others in a meaningful way can help reduce feelings of isolation.
• Building Relationships: Volunteering offers the chance to meet new people and build lasting friendships.

Level of Commitment:

• Term of Appointment: One year with option to renew.
• Training Required: Orientation to AARP. Other skills training and issue briefings as necessary (and available upon request).
• Time Commitment: Varies from 4-6 hours/week depending on event calendar and AARP initiatives.
• Travel Required: Travel as necessary throughout your local area, to the AARP state office (rarely), and to other regional meeting sites. Expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with AARP policy.

If you are interested in learning more about this position please email Polly Mendoza: mmendoza@aarp.org

AARP is nonpartisan and does not support or oppose any candidate for public office. Nor does it contribute money to any candidate or political party. Volunteers who are very visible in the community as an AARP representative should not volunteer for visible roles in a political campaign. If you have questions about whether to volunteer for a candidate, consult with your AARP state office.

It is the Association's policy that all AARP volunteers receive equal opportunity and treatment throughout recruitment, appointment, training, and service. There will be no discrimination based on age, disabilities, gender, race, national or ethnic origin, religion, economic status, or sexual orientation.