President of NE PA AARP Chapter Receives Andrus Award for Community Service

Carl Yanowski of Dunmore has been selected by AARP, the nonprofit organization for people 50 and older, to receive the 2017 AARP Pennsylvania Andrus Award for Community Service -- the Association’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service.

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 Yanowski at ceremonies in Dunmore on October 23.

Carl Yanowski serves as president of the NE Pennsylvania AARP Chapter. Under his leadership, the chapter has established a scholarship program for two medical students at the Geisinger Community Medical College in Scranton, launched a Memorial Fund for chapter members and built a strong relationship with the local senior center. Carl has helped advance AARP’s advocacy agenda by organizing meetings with numerous local lawmakers on key areas impacting health care and financial security. He also started a soup kitchen at the church where he plays the organ, has run successful fund raising campaigns for a local nursing home and serves as a fill-time caregiver.

“This award acts as a symbol to the public that we can all work together for positive social change,” said Joanne Grossi, AARP Pennsylvania Volunteer State President. “Carl Yanowski serves as a true role model and inspiration for so many throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania, making him a particularly worthy recipient 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.