Jeanette Couple Receives AARP Pennsylvania’s Most Prestigious Volunteer Award for Community Service

Lucille and Clyde Bittner of Jeanette have been selected by AARP, the nonprofit membership organization for people 50 and older, to receive Pennsylvania’s 2014 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious and visible volunteer award.

Named for AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, the award recognizes outstanding individuals who are making their communities better in ways that are consistent with AARP's mission, vision and commitment to volunteer service, and who inspire others to volunteer. The award was formally presented to the Bittners at ceremonies in Harrisburg today.

Lucille and Clyde Bittner regularly provide transportation to local seniors needing medical attention and take care of snow and ice removal and lawn maintenance for elderly neighbors. They also grow their own produce for elderly residents of a nearby public housing project. The couple serves on Jeanette’s Neighborhood Partnership Program and Redevelopment Authority Board and volunteer for the Jeanette Salvation Army and local Bridges to Prosperity program, all while juggling career responsibilities and their own health issues.

“This award acts as a symbol to members and the public that we can all work together for positive social change,” said Jim Palmquist, AARP Pennsylvania State President. “Lucille and Cylde Bittner’s tireless commitment to the Jeanette community serves as an inspiration to others and makes them particularly worthy recipients of this award.”

AARP's commitment to volunteer service can be traced back to the life and vision of founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. From the beginning, her motto, "To serve, not to be served," has shaped AARP's community service efforts at the national, state and local levels. Andrus Award winners are nominated by their peers and the award recipient is chosen by a special committee of AARP Pennsylvania volunteer leaders.