Joyce Nelson Named 2016 Andrus Award for Community Service Winner

Joyce Nelson of Moss Point has been selected by AARP, the nonprofit organization for people 50 and older, to receive the  2016 AARP Mississippi Andrus Award for Community Service -- the Association’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service.

AARP Mississippi selected Nelson for her remarkable service which has greatly benefited the community, supported AARP’s vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers. She volunteers with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children), Friends of the Library for the Jackson-George Regional Library System, and the American Red Cross. She has served as Zone Captain for the Annual Mississippi Marine Coastal Clean-up in Moss Point.

The award includes a $1,000 donation to the charity or organization of the recipient’s choice. Nelson selected CASA where she volunteers to help abused or neglected children.

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

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.