Looking for Extraordinary People Making a Difference

Here at AARP, we believe that making a difference doesn't stop as you age. Millions of older adults are using their experience to give back, to solve problems, and to change lives. Do you know an extraordinary individual who is using their life experience to make a better future for all?  If so, please nominate them for the 2018 AARP Purpose Prize Award™ .

“The AARP Purpose Prize is all about a new story of aging — focusing on experience and innovation and the idea that our aging population is an untapped resource full of possibilities,” says AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins.  “AARP Purpose Prize winners and nominees are role models. They are makers and doers who are out there creating new solutions that make the world a better place for people of all ages,” she said.

For an example, look no further than 2017 AARP Purpose Prize winner Celeste Mergens of Bellingham, Washington.  Mergens started Days for Girls International eight years ago to supply young girls in a Kenyan orphanage with feminine hygiene products so they wouldn't have to miss school during their periods. This nonprofit has helped 800,000 women and girls worldwide, sidestepping cultural taboos to educate them about their bodies.

"When I started, I had no idea this was going to be a movement. I thought I was simply meeting the needs of these girls,” said Mergens.  Read more about Mergens and the other 2017 Purpose Prize winners on our website, or watch the video below.

The AARP Purpose Prize is the only national award in the United States that celebrates people 50 and older who are using their life experience to make a difference. In 2018, to coincide with AARP’s 60th Anniversary, five winners will receive $60,000 each to celebrate their achievements and broaden the scope of their work. Applications go through a formal, structured review process, including review by a prestigious jury of national leaders who have used their life experience for good. Based on the jury’s recommendations, the AARP CEO selects the final winners.

In addition, AARP recognizes that there is an incredible volume of high-quality applicants doing amazing work.  Therefore, AARP will select Fellows to round out each year’s “class.” Fellows will receive $5,000 each and will have access to a number of supports and technical assistance.

Please take the time to read more about AARP’s Purpose Prize, and consider nominating someone to help us celebrate the creativity, innovation, and inspiration that life experience brings.  The deadline for nominations is March 6, 2018.