Message from AARP South Dakota State President, Patrick Gross
Source: AARP.org | August 5, 2003
It is truly an honor to serve as State President of AARP South Dakota. Both my wife Donna and I have been members for many years, and we recognize the lasting value of membership in AARP. We have come to depend on AARP for a voice in issues impacting our lives and our communities.
I am increasingly impressed with AARP's accomplishments advocating for members, educating the public or engaging volunteers. Our volunteers, after all, are the heart of our organization. Our dedicated members are so willing to give of their time because they recognize the benefit of strength in numbers. When AARP speaks, our leaders listen.
It is our opportunity throughout the year to directly influence issues that affect us in our daily lives. At a time when we often feel sidelined by national issues or frustrated by policies we may not understand or agree with, it is increasingly important for each of us to remember that our voices on civic issues count. We can make a difference. Our communities, families and friends all benefit when we become active in local, state and national issues. Our AARP membership makes a statement to our leaders. But, our willingness to educate ourselves on issues and then act is also a valuable and necessary part of making our communities better places to live.
Speaking of communities, we are pleased there is growing interest in expanding the number of local chapters/affiliations and our membership throughout South Dakota. A growing interest in organizing new AARP and Retired Educator groups around the state tells us folks are becoming more active and interested in their quality of life and the rural communities in which they live. With your help we can bolster our membership and grow into an even more influential organization. One that continues to add value to our membership in AARP, one that is increasingly recognized statewide as a quality group of citizens who care enough about their communities and each other to be active in civic affairs.
I feel compelled to highlight the special relationship between AARP and the South Dakota Retired Educators is near and dear to my heart. My wife, Donna, spent 39 years teaching in South Dakota schools. Through her work I learned to appreciate how hard educators work in our state, for what has historically been less than equitable financial reward. Thankfully, our teachers were and continue to be dedicated souls who have shaped so many leaders over the years and influenced the communities in which they live. My hat is off to each of those who have served and continue to support the educational needs of our communities. Together AARP and SDRTA will continue to define and articulate the many needs that we know our legislative and local leaders are concerned about.
Again, it is an honor to serve you, and work with you to enhance our quality of life. I look forward to renewing friendships with many of you and to meeting members across South Dakota.
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