A Tradition of Service

Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired high-school principal and the founder of AARP, believed in the power of people working together for the greater good. She put that belief into action by founding AARP with the motto "To serve, not to be served." The life of Dr. Andrus, one of our country's greatest community service role models, underscored the central role community service can play in a well-lived life.

AARP's Commitment to Community Service

AARP's longstanding commitment to community service is reflected in our Community Service Programs which have provided decades of continuous service in communities across the U.S. These programs offer a variety of worthwhile volunteer opportunities related to program management, administration, operations and direct service. Over 40,000 volunteers serve nearly 2.5 million people annually through these programs.

In addition, AARP Chapters have had a grassroots community service presence across the US for more than 40 years, and AARP's Senior Community Service Employment Program participants provide nearly 8 million hours of community service annually in thousands of local human service agencies.

Opportunities for Volunteering

Becoming an AARP volunteer is an exciting way to help bring about — people like you. AARP volunteers are doing their part to respond to the needs of people 50+.

Find out about volunteer opportunities with AARP community service programs.

Other volunteer opportunities involve advocating for issues affecting 50+ Americans. You can sign up for free e-mail updates and action alerts from AARP. By becoming an AARP Citizen Advocate, you will stay informed about AARP activities in your community and learn how you can make a difference.

For more information about the many ways AARP volunteers are a positive force and how you can get involved, visit our Volunteering area.