AARP Mississippi Recognizes Andrus Award for Community Service Winner

Frances Washington of Columbia has been selected by AARP, the nonprofit membership organization for people 50 and older, to receive Mississippi’s 2010 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious and visible volunteer award for community service.  This award symbolizes an individual’s power and ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

AARP Mississippi selected Washington for her remarkable service and for the impact she has had on the lives of others and on her community.  

She is president of the Mississippi Rural Center AARP Chapter #5276, which she revived in 2003. Frances motivated the members with fun activities, monthly community service projects, and special activities every holiday.  She raised the chapter’s visibility in the community by collaborating with other organizations on activities; visiting local nursing homes, hospitals, schools, and children’s libraries; and participating in parades.  

She is married to Dr. Sonny Washington, Pastor of Mount Pleasant C.M.E. Church in Mount Olive, MS. They have two children – a daughter who is a medical doctor in Diagnostic Radiology at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, and a son who has a background in public policy and administration.

Washington is a retired educator. She holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education, a Reading Specialist Degree, and a Doctor of Theology Degree.  

She serves as a trustee for the Marion-Jefferson Davis Regional Library System Board. She also serves with the ACLU’s Mississippi Prevention of School House to Jail House Coalition.

“This award acts as a symbol to members and the public that we can all work together for positive social change,” says AARP Mississippi State President Bruce W. Brice, Sr.  “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions AARP volunteers make to their communities, neighbors, and the programs they serve.”

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 older. The award will be formally presented during the 4th Congressional District’s AARP Volunteer Appreciation Banquet Oct. 18 at the Hattiesburg Convention Center.

Recipients across the nation were chosen for their ability to enhance the lives of AARP members and prospective members, improve the community in or for which the work was performed, and inspire others to volunteer.