Community

Women's History Month is underway, and we're excited to celebrate the ground-breaking contributions of amazing women to communities nationwide. Originating as Women's History Week in 1981, March was officially dedicated to honoring women's achievements in 1987. And AARP joins in the nation in celebrating women for their leadership, mentoring, and dedication to their communities in ways that have changed the course of history.

Black History Month provides an important and timely platform to celebrate the contributions of Black Americans to their communities and our nation. During Black History Month and beyond, AARP recognizes community leaders who are dedicated to coming together to transform, uplift, and educate communities. The following community members were honored for 50 Over 50, which recognizes and celebrates 50 incredible Minnesotans over the age of 50 who are challenging outdated beliefs about aging, living life on their own terms, and improving the lives of others.

We know that it takes time to build great communities. But we also believe that tangible improvements can spark long-term change. AARP launched the Community Challenge in 2017 to fund projects that build momentum to improve livability nationwide. We are excited to announce the program is back in 2023 for its seventh year and is currently accepting applications online through March 15, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. CT.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words remind us of the importance of service at any level. AARP believes your experiences, skills and passion have the power to inspire others to make a difference. We encourage everyone to continue building on his legacy by lending a helping hand in your community. Find ways to volunteer in Minnesota at createthegood.aarp.org.

AARP offers free Bridge Lessons with National Bridge Champion Larry Cohen

Volunteer LaVerne Gilliam, 67, has received the 2020 AARP Minnesota Andrus Award for Community Service.

Enjoy the outdoors with a free snowshoe hike with AARP Minnesota in February.

With an ongoing pandemic looming in the background and the need to bridge deep divides around racial and social injustices, this Black History Month provides an important and timely platform to celebrate the contributions of Black Americans to their communities and our nation. AARP is highlighting a number of people who are building up their communities around the nation, including three from Minnesota:

"Quick action" innovative projects aimed to inspire change and create better places to live for residents of all ages

AARP Minnesota 2021 Andrus Award Recipient: Mohammed Mehdi