Texas Volunteers: The Heart and Soul of AARP

It’s that time of year, folks! It’s time to celebrate and recognize our outstanding volunteers during National Volunteer Week. In Texas, we’d like to highlight several outstanding folks who have gone above and beyond for their communities. Without the help of our committed volunteers, our Texas communities would not be the same.

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From CAREversation family caregiver support groups to Fraud Watch Network shredding events, from volunteering with AARP Tax-Aide to help neighbors file their returns to urging elected officials to take a stand on issues important to older Texans, it’s easy to see how volunteers are the heart and soul of AARP.

And their presence in Texas communities doesn’t go unnoticed. While it would be sadly impossible to list all of them, here are just a few examples of our great volunteers who work closely with the Texas staff.

Building a Team

Jackie Abert and Lydia Oliphant of Houston met and became great friends after attending many AARP events.

“Their excitement helps excite other volunteers,” says Isabel Longoria, who co-leads the Association’s Houston work.

As active volunteers, the dynamic duo has planned out numerous events and is currently building up a speakers bureau.

“I like meeting new people. I learn new things every time I volunteer,” says Lydia.

Taking the Lead

Up in Dallas-Fort Worth, Billie Waite helps lead efforts in educating the community about how North Texas can become more livable and age friendly. Her practical advice and elegant leadership helps the team.

“She is the perfect balance between partner and leader,” says Melodia Gutierrez, who oversees the Association’s work in Fort Worth.

“I volunteer because I feel like it gives me the opportunity to give back to my community,” Billie explains.

Empowering the Community

San Antonio volunteer Irma Mireles helped initiate a series of successful events called “Seniors Registering Seniors” by partnering with local school districts and the Alamo Colleges District. Volunteers register new voters and them about the voting process.

“The passion Irma has for voting rights and helping her community is empowering and motivating,” says Lisa Ann Rodriguez, San Antonio co-lead.

Lending His Expertise

A relatively new addition to the Austin team, Jose Saenz has hit the ground running since late last year when he and his wife first started volunteering with AARP.

“I just want to be an active participant in the community,” says Jose.

Jose has a background working in health and that prior experience helps focus his efforts.

Passing it On

Down in Brownsville, Angie Hamm motivates other volunteers while embracing the challenges that are tossed her way. Angie serves as volunteer advocacy trainer and has lead meetings to help teach other volunteers.

“Angie has become the change we want to see in our volunteers,” Veronica de Lafuente Associate State Director expressed.


When thinking about volunteerism, AARP founder Ethel Percy Andrus perhaps explained it best: “They are America in action.”