Applications Now Open for 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.

Columbus resident Zerqa Abid, who is the founder, president and executive director of MY Project USA, is a 2023 Purpose Prize recipient. Her nonprofit organization is a national initiative to protect and empower refugee and immigrant youth and their families living in underprivileged, crime-ridden neighborhoods.

"I wanted to create a space where youth can come and reach out to others, and none of our children are being exploited by any of the criminals, drug dealers, or pimps in the community." Abid said. "We needed to have [an] organization that's focused on protecting and empowering children."

AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins said, “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.”

 The call for applications runs through Feb. 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 United States.

Check out the frequently asked questions regarding eligibility and selection criteria. See the AARP Purpose Prize AwardSee official rules and apply at aarp.org/apply.