Key Peninsula Resident Receives AARP Statewide Award for Community Service

AARP Washington is proud to announce that Sara Thompson of Lakebay has been named the recipient of the prestigious AARP Washington State Andrus Award for Community Service, AARP’s highest honor for volunteerism. This award recognizes individuals who exemplify AARP’s vision of empowering people to choose how they live as they age and who make a significant impact on their communities

Bruce Carlson - AARP

Sara Thompson’s leadership and unwavering commitment has transformed the Key Peninsula community. As board president of The Mustard Seed Project (TMSP), Sara spearheaded the creation of the first assisted living residence for elders on the Key Peninsula—a dream that took 16 years of planning, fundraising, and collaboration to achieve. The Mustard Seed Village, which opened in November 2022, now provides a safe, dignified home for elders, including dedicated memory care and affordable housing options.

Under Sara’s guidance, TMSP raised nearly $6 million in donations and grants, leveraged a USDA loan, and overcame countless challenges to complete the $14 million project. Her vision and persistence ensured that older adults in the community could live with dignity, purpose, and connection.

Beyond her work with TMSP, Sara continues to inspire through her volunteer roles on the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources Advisory Board, as a reporter and board member for Key Peninsula News, and as a passionate advocate for lifelong learning and engagement. Her ability to bring people together, artists, musicians, and neighbors alike, has encouraged countless others to volunteer and contribute to community life.

“Sara Thompson is a natural leader who will not give up despite the odds,” said Eric Blegan, Executive Director of TMSP. “Her passion, organizational skills, and enthusiasm have made an extraordinary difference for elders and families on the Key Peninsula.”

“Innovative housing and long-term care models that blend public and private funding are vital to building sustainable communities,” said Mustard Seed Board member and AARP volunteer Norm McLoughlin. “With diverse resources, we can create solutions that honor dignity, foster independence, and ensure older adults have access to safe, affordable options. Collaboration across sectors isn’t just smart, it’s the key to meeting the evolving needs of our aging population.”

“This award acts as a symbol to the public that we can all work together for positive social change,” says Marguerite Ro, AARP Washington State Director. “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions volunteers make to their communities, neighbors, and the programs they serve.”

As part of the recognition, AARP Washington presented a donation to the Mustard Seed Coalition so they can continue their efforts to help older Washingtonians in their community live with dignity and a renewed sense of independence.

Cheri Perazzoli of the Hearing Loss Association of America – Washington State was also honored with special recognition and a donation from AARP to her organization.