May 2025 Volunteer of the Month: Joe Weinkle

When Joe Weinkle turned 50 in 1990, his wife gifted him a membership to AARP — a small gesture that would spark a lasting connection. But it wasn't until a few years ago that he decided to get involved as a volunteer.

"I said I’d be interested in doing something, but I had no idea what kinds of programs were available," he recalls. Thanks to AARP Pennsylvania staff member Colleen Cadman ("She’s really dynamite, in a good way," he says), he quickly found opportunities that fit his interests — from helping at walking tours and movie nights to supporting Medicare information sessions.

One event he looks forward to each year is the Black History Month exhibit at the City-County Building in Pittsburgh, where AARP is a proud sponsor. This year’s exhibit focused on Black opera, following previous years’ themes like the first Black ambulance service in the area. "The exhibits are great — and the stories they tell are even better. They shine a light on parts of history I was only vaguely aware of," he says.

Another highlight of his volunteer work was participating in a "walk audit" of a Pittsburgh neighborhood, assessing safety and accessibility.

Joined by a local councilperson and community members, they brainstormed practical improvements like better signage and increased safety measures. During the walk, he even raised a personal concern: a dangerous intersection near his own home. Thanks to the conversation and requests from other neighbors, city leaders are now planning safety improvements.

With more than 50 years of experience in the insurance industry, he’s particularly passionate about protecting older adults from fraud. He stays informed and appreciates AARP’s efforts to keep members vigilant. "Fraud is nasty," he says. "AARP does a bang-up job getting the word out."

Reflecting on his volunteering experience, he says the best part is the people. "I deal with some very nice people — people I wouldn't have met otherwise," he says. And while he enjoys the occasional perks like gift cards offered to volunteers, he feels strongly that those benefits should go to seniors who truly need them.

Still working part-time ("I'm hardly working," he jokes), Joe looks forward to continuing his volunteer journey. "As far as I’m concerned, the volunteer effort is excellent," he says. "If someone suggests something new, I’m always willing to consider giving my time to the cause.”