AARP Montana Announces 2025 Winner of its most Prestigious Volunteer Award

Marilyn Hamer of Black Eagle selected as recipient of 2025 Andrus Award for Community Service

AARP Montana announced that Marilyn Hamer of Black Eagle was selected to receive the 2025 Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious volunteer award. Each year AARP honors the legacy of AARP founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, with the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service. This award is a symbol of the power of individuals to make a difference in the lives of others. The award was formally presented to Marilyn during a recent ceremony, which was joined by an enthusiastic online audience from across Montana. 

“Marilyn is truly an inspiration. Her dedication to others represents the principles of the Andrus Award for Community Service -- she embodies the legacy of Ethel Percy Andrus’ motto, ‘to serve and not to be served’,” said Tim Summers, AARP Montana State Director. 

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service honors individuals who embody AARP’s mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age, through selfless dedication, inspiring leadership, and impactful volunteer service. This prestigious award recognizes those who share their experience, talents, and skills to enrich their communities, creating meaningful change that uplifts and connects people of all ages. 

Marilyn Hamer lives in Black Eagle, MT in the house her mom was born and raised in. She retired from teaching in 2011 after 38 years of service in the Great Falls Public School System. Marilyn received her bachelor’s degree from Montana State University and her master’s degree from Northern Montana College. She taught grades 1 and 2 for 25 years and then went back to school to get a library endorsement. For 13 years she was a K-12 librarian. 

Marilyn has been involved in many ways since retirement. She is the Executive Director of the Montana Retired Educators Association and she is a past Vice President of North Central Montana Retired Educators Association. She also volunteers at her church and in her community and is a member of the AARP Montana Executive Council. 

In congratulating Marilyn, Summers said “this year, AARP proudly presents the Andrus Award to Marilyn Hamer, a retired educator from Black Eagle whose unwavering commitment to volunteerism has transformed her community. Marilyn’s passion for service shines through in her tireless efforts to foster education, connection, and opportunity for those around her. With a heart for giving back, she has dedicated countless hours to initiatives that empower others, reflecting the spirit of AARP’s vision for vibrant, engaged communities. Marilyn’s contributions inspire us all to make a difference, proving that one person’s dedication can create a ripple effect of positive change.”

“Thank you Marilyn for all you’ve done, you are truly deserving of the Montana Andrus Award for Community Service. This is an amazing demonstration of the volunteer spirit. On behalf of AARP Montana, we are honored to present Marilyn Hamer with the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service!” 

As part of the award, AARP Montana will make a donation in Marilyn Hamer’s name to a non-profit of her choice.

Also at the event, special awards were presented to the following individuals and organizations: 

Dr. Marsha Goetting – Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her extraordinary lifelong dedication to empowering over 25,000 Montanans through more than 800 financial and estate planning workshops, AARP proudly honors Dr. Goetting with the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating her transformative impact on Montana’s communities. 

Nancy Andersen -- AARP Excellence in Communications Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to AARP’s mission through outstanding social media engagement. Her dedicated efforts in consistently liking, sharing, and commenting on our posts have significantly amplified awareness, fostered meaningful connections, and enhanced community participation in AARP’s events and activities across Montana.

Jennell Huff -- AARP Fraud Fighter of the Year Award: in recognition of her exceptional leadership in elder fraud prevention and financial empowerment. Her transformative Senior Champions program and statewide education and advocacy efforts have safeguarded countless Montanans, embodying AARP’s mission to protect and empower older Montanans across the state. 

Fran Viereck -- 2025 Advocacy Volunteer Award in recognition of her nearly 20 years of dedicated advocacy on hunger, veterans, and caregiver issues, and her impactful leadership in fostering community connections. Her tireless service has empowered and uplifted countless Montanans. 

AARP Foundation’s outstanding Tax-Aid Volunteer: Carmen Adams in recognition of her years of dedicated service and leadership as State Administrative Specialist since 2018. Her invaluable training and contributions to the Volunteer Portal have strengthened the program, enabling vital support for Tax-Aide volunteers and ultimately, their communities. 

AARP Outstanding Driver Safety Award: Don Matlock in recognition of his outstanding dedication as a new instructor, tirelessly arranging and conducting classes to enhance driver safety. His enthusiasm and valuable insights are making a significant impact in Montana. 

AARP Outstanding Community Partner Award:

• Lisa Shepherd – Missoula Aging Services in recognition of her outstanding leadership in advocacy for older Montanans. Her tireless efforts to secure increased funding for aging services and strengthen statewide collaboration have expanded resources and opportunities for older adults, exemplifying AARP’s mission to enhance quality of life and empower communities across Montana.

• City of Helena in recognition of its visionary leadership and commitment to making Helena an even more age-friendly and livable community for residents of all ages. Through proactive planning, inclusive engagement, and innovative policies, the City of Helena exemplifies AARP’s mission to create communities where older adults can thrive. 

In congratulating all award recipients, Montana State Director Tim Summers concluded "this is an amazing demonstration of the volunteer spirit and we are reminded of the incredible power of volunteerism. These dedicated individuals have shown us the profound impact that selfless service can have on our communities. Their commitment to helping others has significantly enhanced the quality of life for many. We are deeply honored to present these awards to this year's winners, each of whom has made a remarkable difference in the lives of others through their generous contributions."