This is one of my favorite times of year working for AARP.  Day of Service is Thursday, May 8 and we are accepting nominations for the Andrus Award.

AARP’s Day of Service began in 2001 as a way to give back after the tragedy of September 11.  Each year thousands of AARP members, volunteers and staff come together working to improve the lives of others in our communities.  Last year, Alabama volunteers assisted Meals on Wheels, visited nursing homes, read to school children, took food to local fire station and police stations, and gave back in many other meaningful ways.  If you would like to participate, send me an email either through this site or at mmonte@aarp.org

In an effort to fight identity theft, the state office will provide an industrial size shredder for the public to dispose of sensitive materials.  If you have any old bank statements, old bills or any other personal information you would like safely destroyed, and are in the Montgomery area, come see us!  We will be at Cramton Bowl, 1022 Madison Avenue from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service is AARP’s most prestigious and visible volunteer award for community service.  The award is named for our founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus who’s motto was “to serve, and not to be served.”  Its purpose is to recognize outstanding AARP volunteers and members in every state who are making a powerful difference in their communities in ways that are consistent with AARP’s mission, vision, and commitment to volunteer service and who inspire others to volunteer.  Each year one volunteer is chosen from every state.  Last year’s Alabama winner, Earl Heath, was instrumental in reviving his AARP chapter.  He volunteers with the Montgomery Area Food Bank, the Capitol Toastmasters Club, his church and other great organizations. 

To read more about Mr. Heath, or to nominate some one you know, visit http://www.aarp.org/about_aarp/community_service/andrus_award_winners.html  If you have any questions about the award, make sure to email me!