Volunteers Ready to Share Heart in Missouri Communities

 

Volunteers from across the state, which included “Speak Out!” speakers bureau volunteers, and the newly formed Action Council that supports advocacy issues and policy issues, met in Columbia February 6th and 7th.

A possible snow blizzard in mid-Missouri - that fortunately didn’t occur - drew 34 volunteers who participated in the day and a half issues briefing and “Table Talk” conversations about bureau administration and planning for 2016. A separate breakout session was orchestrated for the Action Council where talks focused on state legislative activities, policy implementation, and planning.

Donned in AARP branded red and white ties, Volunteer State President Sidney McCarther and State Director Craig Eichelman set the tone and stated the purpose of the gathering. Following meeting introductions, Advocacy Director Jay Hardenbrook presented issue briefings of state priorities: The CARE Act and Financial Resilience that included the Work and Save/”Take a Stand” campaigns. Eichelman provided an update on the AARP Fraud Watch Network campaign.

During the group dinner, guest speaker and speaker’s bureau member Ron Sergent gave a talk titled “Kindling and Fire.” His presentation detailed his journey as an AARP volunteer with a focus on the numerous experiences he has encountered, and the opportunities that volunteerism has afforded him over a 10-year plus period.

Sergent shared his involvement in nationwide travels and issue briefings; rallies supporting the Affordable Care Act that expanded healthcare for thousands and the advocacy initiatives for which he was volunteer campaign manager. During one campaign, Sergent became known as “Radio Ron” after serving as spokesperson on numerous radio programs across the state. Ron also noted the many “fringe benefits” of being an AARP volunteer, such as attending the Tony Bennett one-night performance at the “fabulous” Fox Theatre in St. Louis.

Sergent’s presentation lit fire to the kindling of volunteerism and lauded the experience he hopes to continue.

If you are interested in experiencing the AARP family of volunteers, send us an email. We’ll be in touch and let you know about the many opportunities that are available so you can share your expertise, experience, and talent in your local community.