ALABAMA, Betty Foster
Since retiring from a career in public education, Betty has volunteered with her local schools, library, hospital and other non-profit organizations, including the American Cancer Society.  The results of Betty’s hard work can be seen throughout her community in the faces of school children and the others she touches, but when her efforts are directed toward the Alabama State Legislature, seniors statewide benefit. She is a member of the Alabama Education Retirees Association (AERA) Lobbying Network and has participated in AARP Alabama’s Legislative Day where, in each case, she lobbies legislators on issues related to the well-being of older Alabamians.

ALASKA, Wally Riehle
Wally is an active AARP volunteer. He has taught AARP Driver Safety courses three to four times per year for many years in two communities. He not only teaches Driver Safety classes, but he constantly challenges seniors to drive more safely.  Wally also serves as a volunteer coordinator for AARP’s TaxAide Program; he calls and encourages people to attend AARP meetings and keeps members up-to-date on activities; and he regularly volunteers to staff the AARP booth at the annual State Fair in Palmer, where he takes the time to engage in conversation with people of all ages.
  
Wally has an infectious enthusiasm in all he does for AARP and that is a real asset.

ARKANSAS, Gerald Andrews
Gerald, from Pine Bluff, is the HUB leader for a five-county area. He is responsible for implementing AARP projects and activities, creating partnership opportunities with diverse communities and advocacy efforts at the local, state and federal level. As a member of AARP Chapter #323,  Gerald serves as the program chair and is an active member of the Arkansas Silver Haired Legislation. He has taught AARP Driver Safety course for four years and is a member of the State Office Diversity Team. Gerald promotes AARP in a world class manner.

ARIZONA, Garry York
As Executive Director of the All Arizona School Retirees Association (AASRA), an affiliate of the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA), Garry has had a significant statewide impact on the well-being of school retirees through his effective advocacy for health insurance and pension issues at the state Legislature.  Garry’s outstanding leadership of AASRA has resulted in substantial increases in membership in his local AASRA Unit (from 30 to over 400) and the statewide AASRA membership (from 500 to over 1,400).

CALIFORNIA, Keith Bauer
From his service in the Navy to his work as an educator and his volunteer efforts, Keith’s life exemplifies how one person can have “the power to make it better.” He has served as a Boy Scout Master, a Eucharistic Minister with his church, and for the past 14 years, a dedicated advocate on behalf of AARP California. Currently, Keith serves as Regional Mobilizer for Orange County and the Inland Empire, guiding and organizing volunteers into action on behalf of AARP.

COLORADO, Judy Frankenburger
Judy started volunteering for AARP almost a decade ago. Through her commitment, the Pueblo Information Center became a model for other Centers throughout the U.S. as the Center has expanded its reach beyond Pueblo to all of southern Colorado’s residents and visitors.

Judy also serves as an AARP Driver Safety Program Instructor; on the Foster Grandparents Advisory Board; is a State Health Insurance Program Counselor; adjunct faculty for Pueblo Community College, nursing; and is on the TRIAD Executive Board. Her statewide leadership roles include the CO Nurses Association Board of Directors, CO Consumer Insurance Council and the 2010 Commission. 

CONNECTICUT, Jim Harris
Jim Harris helped organize busloads of people for AARP’s transportation rally and press conference. He spoke to external groups, the media and members on the transportation issue helping drive member calls, letters and e-mails to legislators.

Jim brought the same fervor to organizing an AARP Connecticut Grandparents Taskforce to help the group gain political clout after years of being dismissed by politicians. Under Jim’s co-chairmanship, the task force grew from 20 dedicated volunteers to an active group of about 110 grandparents. In 2006, the taskforce won state funds to create an information network to help grandparents raising their grandchildren.

DELAWARE, Richard Ornauer
Richard, presently serving as second-in-command as the Assistant State Coordinator with Delaware’s AARP Driver Safety Program, has worn many volunteer hats since he joined the AARP Driver Safety Program in 1992.

Richard’s persistence in championing the state’s most popular driver refresher program contributed to the selection of Delaware as the second state in the nation to offer the new four-hour course to those who previously earned a standard eight-hour certification. He is also credited with “most classes taught” by any certified volunteer instructor in the state.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, Adele Daughtry
Since 2000, Adele has served as coordinator for the DC Tax Aide Program.  In this capacity she has recruited and trained Tax Aide volunteers; identified and selected tax sites; worked with instructors to ensure a smooth operation of the sites in all 8 wards of the city; and publicized the program through her presentations to faith-based institutions, community and seniors groups.  Adele is a tireless ambassador for AARP and the Tax Aide Program. Under her leadership last year alone, her team of 61 trained and IRS certified volunteers provided free tax preparation and assistance to over 3,000 people, some of whom were homebound and had services provided in their homes. 

FLORIDA, Dora Harm
Dora Harm has proven to be instrumental in educating, informing and providing service to enhance the lives of AARP Florida members and non-members.  She has coordinated local AARP leadership meetings at the Beardall Senior Center, thus helping hundred of people become better informed of issues that affect seniors.  Dora has tirelessly served Chapter #1047 by coordinating luncheons and playing Santa Claus by handing out donated gifts she obtained from area merchants.

GEORGIA, James Johnston
James has led his local AARP chapter to participate in such projects as donating to Project Linus; helping the Stepping Stones Education Therapy Center on the Day of Service; ringing bells and stuffing Christmas stockings for the Salvation Army; and serving as guides for the Farm Bureau’s Farm Day for local first graders.   He is always working in the community, area, and state to help those who need help and/or encouragement. He encourages by example and is a mentor to young adults aspiring to be exemplary church workers and other community activity volunteers.

HAWAII, Laura Manis
Laura, a volunteer advocate for more than 20 years, was instrumental in the creation of Hawaii’s Silver Legislature in 2005  (the first to occur in 11 years) . The purpose of this event was to bring elder issues into focus at the legislature and train and engage older adults in the legislative process so that they could become advocates for themselves and groups to which they belong.

As Chair of the steering committee, Laura obtained funding from five outside organizations and used it to hire a project coordinator.  They visited more than 30 neighborhood groups across the islands between May and October to find out what issues were important to seniors so that they could craft an agenda for the Silver Legislature that reflected the needs of the community.

IDAHO, Eugene Wiggers
Eugene possesses an impressive volunteer resume and personifies AARP’s motto, “to serve, not to be served.”  He has consistently demonstrated a high level of commitment with his volunteer work within AARP and throughout his community.  His volunteer work spans the generations and includes mentoring, services to older adults, work delivering AARP’s Social Impact messages, and work with a number of community organizations, boards and advisory committees. 

ILLINOIS, Norma J. Jensen
Norma has provided invaluable assistance to community outreach and advocacy staff and has been a leader within the AARP Illinois state office volunteer network. Norma works tirelessly with Vista Health (Victory Hospital and other affiliated services) within the greater Waukegan area and has logged in more than 4000 hours of service in past year. In 2005 among the 400 volunteers for Vista Health she was selected “Volunteer of the Year.”

INDIANA, Bob White
Bob’s tireless contributions to the AARP Indiana Legislative Team are a testament to his commitment to service and to improving his community. Respected by state legislators, Bob serves as a creditable source on AARP Indiana’s legislative issues. Bob’s skilled advocacy efforts at the State House contributed to important 2005 legislative victories such as promoting implementation of legislation which would provide quality long term community based home care; gained support of a Hoosier Rx wrap-around which would tie the state prescription drug discount initiative into the new Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program.

Additionally, Bob was one of the nationwide volunteers that were hand-picked to monitor AARP’s Social Security blog.  Bob devoted tremendous time and skill to monitoring the blog where he responded to misinformation about AARP’s position on Social Security and privatization proposals. 

IOWA, Carolyn Swingen
Carolyn demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication, knowledge and service to North Iowa Seniors as a Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) counselor.  She provided Medicare Part D counseling through the Cerro Gordo County SHIIP, helping over 300+ individuals and serving more than 750 hours.  She also made  numerous educational presentations to community groups and professionals to further her reach.  In addition, Carolyn also volunteers at Mercy Medical Center – North Iowa for three days a week in the Critical Care Waiting Room, Surgical Waiting Room and with the Medical Assistance Program (MAP).  As a MAP volunteer, she helps individuals of all ages with limited income receive free or reduced price medications. Carolyn rallied the community around this effort and worked tirelessly to make sure that no stone was left unturned in the effort to increase awareness about this new benefit.

KANSAS, Dr. Prem Bajaj
Dr. Bajaj is a prime example of one who likes to be very involved in his community and encourages others to be involved as well.  He has taught Driver Safety courses, has been a Tax-Aide counselor, has worked as a volunteer at the AARP booth at the Kansas State Fair for many years, and has raised awareness and advocated for AARP issues such as opposition to the Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR), strengthening Social Security for future generations and increasing wellness and physical activity.  Every activity that Dr. Bajaj participates in involves recruiting other volunteers to do the same. 

KENTUCKY, Donnie Rose
Donnie, an “everyday hero” according to those who know him, is committed to serving others and has inspired and touched many lives. Whether driving older neighbors to their doctor, teaching Driving Safety Courses, advocating for AARP priority legislation with his Chapter, or delivering fresh produce grown in his garden, Don is there.

Don has dedicated his heart, time and skills in fulfilling Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus’ vision and legacy of providing education, promoting volunteer service and advocating for everyone as we age.

LOUISIANA, Velma Moon
A native of New Orleans, Velma has served on the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and has earned several honors from the city of New Orleans for her service efforts and is an active member of the New Orleans Council on Aging’s Eldercare Coalition. Velma was on the Board of AARP Chapter #1316 for several years in addition to acting as Secretary and Community Service Chair for 3 years in each of those positions. She also served as Secretary of the Greater New Orleans Legislative Council, which brought together the Legislative Chairs of all AARP Chapters in the Greater New Orleans area to monitor pertinent legislation and promote Advocacy of AARP issues.

Displaced last year after Hurricane Katrina, Velma has settled in Baton Rouge, home to the AARP Louisiana state office. She has volunteered at the office on a regular basis as well as at a variety of city-wide and community events. 

MAINE, Ernest C. Marriner
Ernie has been actively involved in AARP advocacy for many years.  He is recognized at the State House for his expertise on taxation issues. Nationally Ernie is serving a third term on the all-volunteer AARP National Policy Council.  His hard work and clear logical thinking are great assets.  In addition to his AARP volunteering, Ernie works part-time in the municipal offices of Clinton where he has oversight of finances.  Earlier in his career he served as city manager.  Always an advocate for consumers, Ernie has been in the forefront of consumer protection in the funeral arena including serving as national president of Funeral Consumers Alliance and on the Maine Board of Funeral Services. Maine’s 2006 Andrus Award winner combines a life time of service to others especially in the policy arena.  His efforts demonstrate the difference one person can make.

MARYLAND, Robert Hein
Since 1992, Bob has served the Chapter and his community as an ambassador for AARP.  Throughout his service at the Chapter, Bob has served as President, Vice President and as a committee chair, providing exemplary information and support so that Medicare beneficiaries in his Chapter and his community understood their choices and options when the new Medicare Prescription benefit rolled out

MASSACHUSETTS, Gerald Stepner
Gerald gives his time to seven volunteer organizations, and the impact he has on the community is sizeable.  Gerald has been active in the Massachusetts Money Management Program for 12 years, currently serving as a representative payee monitor, playing a major role in safeguarding the finances of over 300 Money Management clients across the state, and also serving on the Money Management Local Advisory Council.

MICHIGAN, Elizabeth Parker
Elizabeth is a long term AARP Michigan volunteer. Elizabeth also served as an AARP Chapter President for seven years during which time she set up and encouraged chapter member participation in outreach projects.  Today, at the age of 84, Elizabeth continues to serve as one of our Detroit Ambassadors and a Detroit Information Center volunteer where she provides information and referral services to help improve the quality of life for Detroiters age 50 and over.

MINNESOTA, Vern Monson
Vern has served as the AARP Chapter President for the Bloomington Chapter #1328 for the better part of the last 10 years. He oversees 175 chapter members at their monthly meetings. Vern is also active in crime prevention groups and helps to organize his neighborhood's national night out event every year.  He also serves meals at the senior center; organizes a busload of volunteers for AARP's lobby day every year; constantly recruits for his chapter; and provides transportation for members to the chapter meetings. Vern is truly a giving person and a great community leader.

MISSISSIPPI, Gertrude Bridgeforth
Gertrude, a member of the Brown Missionary Baptist Church, serves as chair of the Mother’s Board planning committee and volunteers to distribute food to the needy each month. Her dedication and personal involvement in the Civil Rights movement is recognized throughout her community and her legacy of volunteer service is well known throughout the mid-south.  As a businesswoman, mother, entrepreneur, political activist, wife and dedicated church member, Gertrude is an inspiration to her entire community.

MISSOURI, Charles Jackson
Charles was selected to assume the position of Coordinator of the St. Louis Information Center.  In this capacity, Charles directs all Information Center operations and activities, including volunteer coordination and supervision.  Charles and his dedicated team of volunteers ensure that the Information Center is open and accessible to the public 6 hours a day, five days a week. 

MONTANA, Robert Redinger
Robert is someone who gives a great deal of himself to his community.  He has been an AARP Driver Safety Volunteer, but has not stopped there.  He was instrumental in increasing the number of instructors and reaching those seniors in the most rural areas.   His efforts outside AARP have improved the community by providing scholarships, toys, home repairs, food and information and/or documentation to those in need.

NEBRASKA, Michael Millea
Michael is involved in all aspects of special AARP projects including planning, promotion, outreach and direct participation. He coordinates the monthly programs for the AARP Nebraska Information Center and has devoted countless volunteer hours helping older Nebraskans enroll in the Part D prescription drug benefit.

NEVADA, E. Madeline Parsons
Madeline’s extensive involvement in the community has proven inspiring as she has tirelessly devoted her time to enhance the lives of seniors in Washoe County. For the past ten years, Madeline has facilitated programs on the AARP TV Channel 16 program AARP Presents, the only northern Nevada television program run by seniors for seniors.

Madeline also works diligently to educate senior women on economic and retirement security by holding financial forums for women - especially for those who find themselves widowed in the later stages of life.

NEW HAMPSHIRE, Geraldine Porter
Gerrie makes valuable contributions to several organizations, but her work for AARP stands out because of her dedication to AARP’s mission of making a difference in the quality of life for our members.  Starting with her time as a key member of the VOTE teams in the 1990s, Gerrie continues to be a leader among volunteers, serving as a member of the Capital City Task Force, AARP New Hampshire’s advocacy team for state affairs.  Gerrie is a Regional Volunteer Leader for her part of the state, and is the editor of the AARP New Hampshire’s Chapter Newsletter.  In addition, Gerrie has been a longtime member and officer in the Souhegan Chapter of AARP in Milford, NH.  Among AARP volunteers, Gerrie truly is a lynchpin, allowing others to serve through her labors of love. The work Gerrie does is an example – which inspires others to act – that truly makes her a stand out in her community and with AARP.

NEW JERSEY, Bill Mayer
Bill has dedicated much of his time over the last several years to improve the lives of New Jerseyans as they age. For the past five years, Bill has produced and hosted Active Adults, a 2-hour weekly radio show that helps seniors get the most out of their golden years.  Each week, listeners can hear Bill and his guests discuss critical issues for New Jersey’s older population on WCTC, 1450 AM, the voice of Central Jersey. Last year he presented over 100 speeches to educate people about Medicare Part D and has been a key advisor in restructuring the AARP New Jersey Speakers Bureau to be utilized as a public affairs resource

NEW MEXICO, John Palmer
As the manager of the Albuquerque Information center, John recruits and trains Center volunteers; orders and distributes AARP and local community materials and information; and guides the provision of information and develops and maintains contacts with community organizations.  John was a key resource person to many seniors who were making decisions about Medicare Part D – providing one-on-one assistance and counseling.  He led local AARP members in helping other organizations like Meals on Wheels, the Vial of Life, the Hunger Solution effort and Seniors Saving Medicare.  His dedication, leadership and commitment to serving seniors in the community and surrounding areas are a model for other AARP members.

NEW YORK, Gene Barrett
Gene’s work has demonstrably enhanced the lives of AARP members and prospective members in many ways.  Since becoming an AARP volunteer in 1996, Gene has served as a tireless advocate for AARP members and prospective members.  Gene quickly became an expert for AARP New York on retirement security.  His command of this issue enabled him to become a media spokesperson, public speaker and citizen lobbyist.  By doing so, he has not only fought to preserve Social Security and improve the lives of older New Yorkers, he has inspired other AARP members and volunteers to become involved and take action. 

NORTH CAROLINA, Thelma Lennon
Thelma is an effective and energetic advocate for volunteerism. She embraces, encourages, and motivates those who are currently volunteering, and is constantly encouraging others to get involved in improving the quality of life in the communities she serves. She is an effective spokesperson for the various programs and services for which she volunteers, and is always willing to speak out on senior issues that are aimed at improving the quality of life in all of these areas.

NORTH DAKOTA, Don Smith
Don has been an active volunteer in several capacities for over 13 years.  Don has spent countless hours assisting seniors and low income persons with their annual tax filing. He is known for his willingness to make home visits to prepare taxes for those who cannot come to the tax site. Don has had a huge impact for seniors in counseling citizens about health and supportive services in his capacity as a Senior Health Insurance Counseling (SHIC) counselor. He actively advocates for citizens regarding their health care bills and Medicare reimbursements problems. Don inspires others by the example he sets through his own commitment and dedication to volunteerism.

OHIO, Rebecca Murray
Rebecca Murray is a long-term care ombudsman volunteer with Area Agency on Aging District XI. Ms. Murray volunteers at two different nursing homes each week and spends more hours than average with over 200 residents.  By being a constant presence, she has educated and empowered the residents. She is also an ambassador to the program and recruits fellow AARP members for volunteering by showing them her full life and the rewards she receives from her volunteer work with nursing home residents.

OKLAHOMA, Jerry Peddy
Jerry is a State Volunteer for Community Outreach, working statewide with chapters to keep them informed of AARP issues and to assist in membership growth. President of AARP Chapter #2186, he was the driving force behind the incorporation of two new chapters last year.  Jerry also serves as an AARP Driver Safety instructor; District Coordinator for AARP Tax-Aid; and AARP Community Presence Coordinator. As a member of the Speakers Bureau, he has made over 35 presentations to various organizations around the state on Consumer Issues, Investment Fraud, Retirement Planning and other AARP topics.  He was our volunteer expert for Medicare Part D, attending CMS training and willing to represent AARP at senior fairs, seminars and conferences to present useful information on Medicare Part D.  He is also quite active in TRIAD in his county.

OREGON, Art Hanson
Art has been involved with the Tax-Aide program at the Milwaukie Center for over ten years.  Through his leadership and efforts, the program served over 1,175 low income and disabled citizens in 2005.  Overall, Mr. Hanson contributes more than 600 hours every year in service to his community.  He continually inspires, encourages, and motivates his peers to volunteer service at the Milwaukie Center and other programs and projects in Clackamas County.

PENNSYLVANIA, Rudy Benedetti
Rudy, a dedicated AARP Tax-Aide volunteer and member of the Board of Directors of Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, sets an example for other volunteers by “doing.”  He has served the Tax Aide program as both a volunteer trainer and as a tax preparer.  His dedicated volunteerism has inspired friends and family to participate in the Benedetti Workday, a day of service in memory of a loved one in the home of an elderly homeowner last September.  

PUERTO RICO, Ana Ríos
Ana, as was Ethel Percy Andrus, is the vivid example of what an educator really is. Educating is serving and walking her talk in her profound belief that education is a practice of personal liberty.  She also has developed special educational projects for her chapter members and for the community, which has impacted the quality of life of elder people. The alphabetization program implemented in a residential institution for elders, the Readers Club designed and lead by Ana in her chapter and her role as founder of the Clara Lair House for Abused Women, are irrefutable evidence of the attributes and humanistic values of this AARP volunteer who this year is honored with the Andrus Award for Community Service for Puerto Rico.

RHODE ISLAND, John O’Hara
AARP Rhode Island selected John for his remarkable service and for the impact he has had on the lives of others and on his community. He is an active member of AARP’s Legislative, Education Advocacy and Planning Committee, The Silver Haired Legislature; Finance and By Laws committees, President of National Association of Federal Employees (NARFE) Chapter 0116 in Johnston and President of AARP Chapter 1072 South Kingstown; including their Baby Boomer evening division. As a member of the Senior/Youth Group South Kingstown Center, John raises money for projects for the disadvantaged and is a life member and legislative officer for Cranston VFW Post 2812. John also volunteers at the South County Senior Center preparing food baskets at Thanksgiving time and is a member of the bereavement group that offers guidance to seniors who have lost their mate.

SOUTH CAROLINA, Roger Jermyn
Roger’s life mission is to give back to the community and he does so on a grand scale. He is president of the Catawba Chapter and works on a myriad of volunteer projects, ranging from delivering meals to the shut-in’s to serving as a trained and certified volunteer ombudsman to the SC Lt. Governor’s long –term care ombudsman program.

Roger shares information with the community-at-large on AARP issues such as Medicare Rx and Social Security. He works very closely with the local Driver Safety and Tax-Aide volunteers.  Under his leadership, the chapter performs and average of 650 hours per month of community service work on a variety of projects.

SOUTH DAKOTA, Morris Magnuson
With almost 20 years of volunteer experience with AARP South Dakota, Morrie is its much-deserving 2006 Andrus Award winner.  Morrie’s volunteer positions for AARP South Dakota include leadership roles on the SD Leadership Council and the Area VI Management Team; State Coordinator for SD Retired Teachers; Tax Aide Counselor; and a Driver’s Safety Instructor for almost 1500 students.  Active in past AARP issue campaigns, he has focused his expertise, energy, and commitment to making life better for others in his state.

TENNESSEE, Ada Midgett Bryant
Ada presents the AARP Chapter #5023 as a group working to benefit senior citizens of Wilson County. As such, Ada is a key player in AARP’s Day of Service and was the Coordinator for the American Red Cross Blood Mobile, for which she personally planned six blood drives in 2005.  Ada does this unbelievable amount of work, giving of herself and her time, cheerfully and with a sweet spirit that embodies our Association’s motto: “To Serve, Not To Be Served.”

TEXAS, Rosa De Leon
It’s hard to find something that AARP Texas’ Andrus Award winner hasn’t done for her community. Seven days a week she is on the go.  The range of programs and organizations in which she is involved is extensive and includes AARP’s Driver Safety Program Center; El Paso’s Citizens Neighborhood Watch and Community College Senior Adult programs; the High School Presentations program on underage drinking; and the Rio Grande Area Agency on Aging.  Rosa says she enjoys working with people of all ages but has a soft spot for activities that involve seniors.  Why does she keep so busy?   “The feeling of making a difference in someone’s life,” she says, “that’s what I get out of it.”

UTAH, Carolyn Taylor
Volunteering is a daily occurrence in the life of AARP Utah’s Andrus Award recipient. Carolyn, a registered nurse and gerontologist, helps neighbors remain independent in their own homes.  By coordinating their personal care assistance and transportation schedules, she ensures they obtain medical care, groceries, and other necessities.  She has also played a huge role in educating individuals, as well as civic and church groups, about the Medicare D Program and how to make informed decisions about their choice of coverage.  Carolyn’s selfless giving and positive attitude is an inspiration to staff and volunteers alike.

VERMONT, Eugene O’Connell
Through Eugene’s efforts in his role as District Coordinator for the Montpelier area AARP TaxAide Program, and the volunteer crew he led, 785 federal and state tax returns for the elderly were completed and filed. His work has positively impacted the social fabric of the community in many ways. The volunteers he recruits and trains derive a great sense of camaraderie through their team efforts in the community.

VIRGINIA, William Lukhard
AARP Virginia’s Andrus Award 2006 winner has been a volunteer with the Association since 1988.   In 2005 Bill served on AARP’s Virginia Executive Council and led AARP Virginia’s Long-term Care initiative to improve long-term care services in the state.  Through his leadership, the goals he developed for this effort will improve current services to needy recipients as well as meet the changing needs of an aging population. His career in state government, coupled with his dedication and focus, make him a formidable advocate for the elderly, the disabled, and the poor.

VIRGIN ISLANDS, Norrine Abramson
It’s not hard to understand why AARP Virgin Islands selected Norrine  as it’s recipient of the 2006 Andrus Award for Community Service.  As Co-Leader for AARP VI’s Community Outreach Team, she works closely with staff to spearhead volunteer recruitment and supervision at all major outreach activities.  She also serves on the Advocacy Team, has mentored and coached other volunteers, and has inspired many to become AARP members and volunteers.  In addition to her Andrus Award, her life of service has been recognized by the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., which made her an honorary member and named her in its Outstanding Women of the Twentieth Century publication. 

WASHINGTON, John Barnett
John, an advocate for civic engagement and healthy living, is AARP Washington’s winner of the 2006 Andrus Award for Community Service.  His commitment to volunteer service goes far beyond his valuable role on AARP’s Washington State Executive Council work. His non-AARP volunteer roles include Long-term Care   Ombudsman; bereavement counselor; activist for healthy living; and member of the Kirkland Senior Council.  He has worked to improve and maintain nursing home and assisted living rights and expanded a local walking program from two to 22 sites.  “I believe in life-long learning,” says John, “and volunteering offers many wonderful opportunities to learn.”   

WEST VIRGINIA, Sylvia Watkins
Sylvia, recipient of AARP’s West Virginia’s 2006 Andrus Award for Community Service,  provides an extraordinary example of the difference that volunteerism can make in the lives of individuals and in the well being and vitality of a community.  The variety, magnitude, and lasting impact of her efforts range from hands-on service to effective advocacy resulting in long-term changes in public policy. This quiet, steady role model is a motivating force that leads by example and works alongside the people she recruits. Sylvia impresses everyone who meets her with her outstanding work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to AARP’s agenda.  

WISCONSIN, Edward & Emilie Litke
Edward and Emilie have demonstrated remarkable service and made an impact on the lives of others in their community, giving tirelessly of their time for the good of others. Among many service activities, the Litkes find time to give rides to seniors for shopping; deliver mail to members of the community who cannot get to their mail box; and crochet lap robes for veterans. They also work hard to raise a big garden and give food weekly to the local food pantry. Edward and Emilie have traveled to the AARP Wisconsin State Office and State Capitol building in Madison several times in the last 16 years and are supportive and knowledgeable about AARP social impact programs. They have also served in leadership capacities to share new ideas with the Chapter Board to continue making the Chapter a viable organization to the surrounding area. The Litkes’ contributions to the AARP Nicolet Area Chapter #1191 are many as active members since 1981.

Through it all, the Litkes remain vital in not taking for granted their health, strength, or character, especially when it can be motivational and inspirational for others . Edward and Emilie are surely proof that individuals have the power and ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

WYOMING, Shirley Weirauch
The late Shirley "Lee" Weirauch is AARP Wyoming’s Andrus Award for Community Service 2006 recipient. Credited with initiating the “Senior Shred for Safety’s Sake” event (complete with shredders as door prizes), Lee promoted quite visibly why and how to protect oneself against ID theft.  Not content with just “fighting crime,” however, she also belonged to two AARP chapters, served as the Communication Coordinator for Tax Aide, trained Tax Aide volunteers, and was an eleven-year member of the national Senior Spelling Bee held annually in Cheyenne.