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The late Frances “Fran” Koppang, Bismarck, has been selected by AARP to receive North Dakota ’s 2009 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service. The award is the membership organization’s most prestigious and visible volunteer award for community service and symbolizes that individuals have the power and ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

 

AARP North Dakota selected Koppang for her significant volunteer service and for the impact she had on the lives of others and on her community.

 

Koppang was an active volunteer, not only for AARP, but other organizations as well. She was a volunteer for the AARP Tax-Aide and Driver Safety Training programs. She also volunteered for the North Dakota State Health Insurance Program, MedCenter One, Thrivent for Lutherans, and Faith Lutheran Church.

 

“Fran was an active community volunteer, never turning down an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of so many others,” said one of her nominators, Muriel Peterson, Bismarck. “Fran inspired others by the example she set through her own commitment and dedication to volunteerism. She actively encouraged others to become involved in volunteer opportunities and her enthusiasm to help others was infectious.

 

Koppang’s volunteer positions often benefited low-income families and seniors seeking health and support services. As an example of her volunteer advocacy, she spent hours researching, making telephone calls, and writing letters trying to win Medicare’s approval to pay for dental surgery for a person with uncontrolled diabetes. Until the dental infection was resolved, the person could not have other needed medical surgery.

 

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service recognizes members and volunteers who, through volunteer service, are significantly enhancing the lives of individuals age 50 and over. The award will be formally presented to Koppang’s family at a 2 p.m. Oct. 2 ceremony at Faith Lutheran Church in Bismarck .

 

“This award acts as a symbol not only to our members, but people of all ages, that we can all work together for positive social change,” says AARP North Dakota State President David Peterson . “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions AARP volunteers make to their communities, neighbors, and the programs they serve.” 

 

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