As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older Vermonters—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.
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.
As Chittenden County’s district coordinator for the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program, Philip Soltau, 77, is this year’s recipient of the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service in Vermont.
Across the Northeast, AARP state offices are currently recruiting new volunteers to serve in a variety of roles. And those who volunteer now say their work—on everything from fraud prevention to legislative advocacy—is highly rewarding.
As a retired IT specialist, William April has an insider’s understanding of computer security. And for the past six years, he has taken that expertise—along with his big smile and booming voice—on the road for AARP Vermont, delivering fraud prevention presentations to groups across the state.
AARP Vermont is pleased to announce that William (Bill) April has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 Andrus Award for Community Service, the organization’s most prestigious and visible volunteer award. This award recognizes outstanding community service and is named after AARP’s founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus.