Volunteer Spotlight: Strengthening Communities Through Advocacy and Local Events

After semi-retiring and moving to Pittsburgh, Barbara Hill was looking for ways to stay engaged in the community. A local AARP Pennsylvania event provided the spark. After connecting with volunteers and learning how AARP directly improves the lives of older adults, Barbara knew she had found the right fit.

Today, Barbara is an active volunteer in western Pennsylvania, helping strengthen communities through advocacy and local events. Whether welcoming people at “Movies for Grown-Ups,” sharing resources at “Get the Scoop on Social Security,” or joining neighbors for Sunday Jazz in the park, Barbara values the connections they build and the opportunities to reduce isolation for older adults and families.

One memorable experience came during a community Walk Audit with residents and public officials. Witnessing firsthand how traffic safety and walkable streets affect older adults, [Name] saw the advocacy process in action—the effort ultimately led to the installation of new stop signals near a school and additional intersections.

For Barbara, volunteering is not only about providing trusted resources but also about purpose and connection. “Volunteering with AARP of Western PA has certainly enriched my life,” they say, reflecting the spirit that drives their work to create safer, stronger, and more connected communities.