AARP® Purpose Prize® Award

Making a difference doesn't stop as you age. Millions of older adults are using their experience to give back, to solve problems, and to change lives. The AARP® Purpose Prize® award honors extraordinary individuals who use their lived experiences to make a better future for all.

The AARP Purpose Prize award is all about a new story of aging — focusing on experience and innovation and the idea that our aging population is an untapped resource full of possibilities.

Up to seven winners who have founded a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofit will receive $50,000 for their organizations. Winners also have access to yearlong individualized supports to help further organizational goals. Examples of current supports include one-on-one leadership coaching for founders, data and evaluation consulting, succession planning, prospectus development, social media and branding support, and more.

One recipient, Ms. Sheila Warnock started a nonprofit organization called ShareTheCaregiving when she was 60. Her organization aims to improve the quality of life for anyone who needs support and aims to reduce the stress, depression, isolation, and economic hardship of their caregivers. Becoming a caregiver is like being in a maze: You’re constantly trying to solve problems, but you don’t know how to navigate the experience, and you often put your own needs on the back burner. Since Sheila started the organization, ShareTheCare groups have been documented in at least 48 states, two territories and 13 countries.

“Our Purpose Prize winners are shining examples of a simple, yet profound truth: When we find our sense of purpose—that certain something that gives us a reason to get up and get going every day—we not only give meaning to our own lives; we make the world a better place for everyone.” said AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins.

The call for applications runs through February 29, 2024 at 5 p.m. ET. To be eligible, applicants need to be:

· 50 years of age or older and founded their organization after age 40

· The founder or co-founder of a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization

· A legal resident of the fifty (50) United States or the District of Columbia

See official rules and apply at www.aarp.org/apply.