AARP NJ Honors Andrus Award Recipient

Stanley Rosenthal of Manchester, NJ, was named the 2018 recipient of the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the non-profit organization’s most prestigious and visible volunteer recognition award. This honor was presented to Rosenthal during AARP’s annual volunteer appreciation event last month in Somerset, NJ, where hundreds of volunteers gathered to celebrate their community-wide efforts across the state.

 

Stanley Rosenthal has actively volunteered to provide food, clothing and housing to residents in Monmouth and Ocean Counties for over fifteen years. By taking action, solving problems and accomplishing extraordinary tasks, many social service organizations have been the beneficiary of his tremendous efforts.

 

In presenting the award to Rosenthal, AARP State President Lavelle Jones noted, “His contributions, dedication and hope in helping people led him to achieve remarkable things in these communities. This is a well-deserved accolade as he is recognized by fellow peers and AARP for his tremendous accomplishments today.”

 

Marcia Bartolf, who nominated Rosenthal for the award described him as an individual who exemplified the AARP vision and worked tirelessly to ensure that individuals are provided with an opportunity to succeed. He has connected with people of all ages and initiated services and support for those in need.

 

Rosenthal’s accomplishments include working with the Freehold Area Open Door, a food pantry and lunch program, and creating a soup kitchen operating out of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with the assistance of friends and colleagues. He encouraged fellow volunteers to provide help on a daily basis rather than just during the holiday months. Stanley recognized the importance of offering a safe and heated shelter for men during the winter months and created a partnership with local churches and synagogues to establish the Freehold Clergy Association Emergency Housing Program. This shelter not only serves a warm meal but also provides volunteer supervision for overnight stays. His most recent outreach efforts have been directed at The Women’s Hospitality Network in Asbury Park, NJ, which seeks to assist those experiencing homelessness.

 

AARP’s highest award for community service, the Andrus Award, honors the work and legacy of AARP founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. From its inception, her motto, “to serve, not to be served,” has shaped AARP’s community service efforts at the local, state and national levels. The Andrus Award is presented annually to acknowledge the contributions of a volunteer who personifies the vision of Dr. Andrus and who gives selflessly to help improve their local community.