Celebrate National Volunteer Month with AARP

April is National Volunteer Month. There is no better time to recognize our volunteers for the outstanding work they do; it's pivotal to our mission of improving the lives of Ohioans as they age.

Our entire team wants to let our volunteers know just how appreciated you are. It's because of your dedication, your skills and your passion that we're able to make a real, positive difference for the 50-plus and their families. We recognize you have choices in how to give your time, and we're extremely grateful you donate it to AARP. We couldn't do a fraction of what we do without your involvement.

If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities, it’s the perfect time to explore what we have to offer.

“During this past year of being a new AARP volunteer, it's been important to me that I can lend my time and my talent to an organization that has a voice that speaks for a large percentage of the population, not only in Ohio but in America,” said volunteer Sandra Peary. “In AARP, there are opportunities to find what your talents are so that you can volunteer in those areas—whether it be public speaking, working community events or sharing your ideas, among many volunteer opportunities. Finally it's about support as we age as 50-plus Ohioans.”

Those roles include providing health and wellness and caregiving support to fraud prevention and advocacy at the Ohio Statehouse. There are both virtual and in-person roles available. Our volunteers are helping at events such as the Ohio State Fair and the Movies for Grown Ups series, connecting groups such as veterans and caregivers to vital information, and contacting their legislators.

We’ve seen legislation pass—most recently Esther's Law—and our volunteers recently met with legislative staff at the Statehouse to ensure our message was heard by lawmakers. This year, we'll be working together with our advocacy volunteers on important issues, including:

• Leading efforts to strengthen Social Security and support retirement savings to help everyone achieve lifetime financial security.
  
• Promoting adequate, affordable health care, including prescription drugs, long-term care and support for family caregivers.
  
• Fostering communities with affordable and appropriate housing, supportive community features, safe driving and mobility options.

“It's important that we now can get back out into the community to share information face-to-face because a lot of the seniors that I am concerned about do not have the technology or live in communities where they can even access that technology to get information,” said volunteer Semanthie Brooks. “I'll bring [information] directly to them, which is a huge benefit to them. And, it brings me much pleasure to know that I am doing that for an organization and with an organization that empowers older adults.”

Take a look at our website for a list of opportunities and join our community of volunteers. Donate your time and talent—in person or from home—to improve the lives of older Americans and their families!