Two Legacy Volunteers recognized for their volunteerism

Two long-time volunteers were recognized with the AARP Legacy Award, Vel Rae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck.

Marnie Piehl

Burkholder began volunteering with AARP in 1996 serving on the Leadership Council, and the first Executive Council. She represented AARP North Dakota at the White House Conference on Aging in 2015, and has been a stellar volunteer at AARP events, booths, and tables for decades. She also is a member of the Speakers Bureau.

Marnie Piehl

Watrel began volunteering for AARP in 1987, well before a state office existed, and traveled throughout western North Dakota talking to groups as part of AARP’s Health Advocacy Services. She worked closely with North Dakota Aging Services and attended the White House Conference on Aging in 1995, and still volunteers for AARP at health fairs.

"These two have volunteered with AARP for a combined total of 65 years, and they show no signs of retiring from it. We are so grateful for their efforts and their example. We couldn't do what we do without them," said Josh Askvig, AARP ND State Director.

Read about the other volunteers recognized in 2024: Andrus Award recipient Marlene Batterberry and Community Fraud Fighter winner Parrell Grossman.



Learn more about AARP's fraud work at aarp.org/fraud.