New Brunswick, NJ – Ann Lippel has been selected by AARP, the nonprofit organization for people 50 and older, to receive the 2025 AARP New Jersey Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service.
As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.
Starting January 2026, Social Security payments will increase by 2.8%. This cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) means the average monthly retirement payment will rise by about $56, from $2,015 to $2,071. Survivor benefits will go up by roughly $52, and disability payments will increase by $44. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will see their first boosted payment on December, payable in January 2026.
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a chance to recognize the contributions, commitment, and sacrifices made by America’s 63 million family caregivers every single day.
Gerre Currie, AARP Tennessee's volunteer state president, is an example of how volunteering with AARP is not just about staffing an event — it’s about putting unique experiences and professional skills to use in meaningful ways.
Florida has 1.4 million veterans, and about half of them are 65 or older. AARP offers resources on fraud prevention, caregiving and support, Veterans Affairs benefits and more.
New Jersey groups have received 47 grants totaling more than $586,000 since the AARP Community Challenge program began in 2017. These quick-action projects focus on livability, improving infrastructure and creating gathering spaces.
Jan Wilberg worked for decades in social service agencies and as a nonprofit consultant before retiring in 2018 to spend more time as a volunteer with various Milwaukee organizations. She received the 2024 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the state’s top volunteer honor.