AARP Virginia Continues Expansion of Statewide Volunteer Network

By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-07-24 16:10:41.638023-04:00

AARP Virginia continues to expand its volunteer corps across the state. A series of recruitment meetings were held earlier this year in Vienna, Arlington, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, Roanoke and Lexington.

"Our volunteers are motivated by a sense of giving back to the community for the successes they've had in life. They like to stay socially involved and want to continue to use their talents and skills while serving their communities," observes AARP Virginia Volunteer Program Coordinator Brian Jacks.

AARP Virginia volunteers, working with paid staff and community colleagues, are a necessary and vital force in achieving the Association's vision, mission and strategic goals at the local, state and national level.

AARP Virginia volunteer opportunities include

Advocacy

  • Work with team members and state legislative specialists to develop positions on AARP Virginia legislative priorities
  • Volunteers attend General Assembly sessions and testify before committees
  • Make presentations to internal and external groups on AARP Virginia legislative priorities

Volunteer Community Organizer

  • Promote AARP ' s presence in the community
  • Identify opportunities for AARP Virginia to participate in existing community venues and increase member involvement
  • Support activities in the community
  • Identify potential candidates for volunteer recruitment

Training Team

  • Conduct training sessions with local AARP chapter leaders on how their chapters can expand service in their communities
  • Create opportunities to partner with diverse communities

Driver Safety Instructors

  • Conduct classes for senior drivers on how to maintain safe driving skills
  • Seniors who successfully complete the program may be eligible for insurance discounts
  • Annually more than 12,000 older Virginians have attended the 8 hour course

Tax-Aide

  • Prepare basic tax returns and provide answers free to tax questions for more than 42,000 Virginians each year, through this AARP Foundation program
  • Receive IRS approved training
  • Do not have to have accounting background

Special Events

  • Contribute as episodic volunteers
  • Participate at a variety of events, fairs, and exhibits
  • Bring valuable information to members and non-members

Speakers Bureau

  • Make presentations to internal and external groups on subjects of community interest such as consumer fraud, long-term care, benefits of being an AARP Virginia member and other important subjects affecting Virginians 50+
  • Develop an expertise on one or more topics identified in the state plan

Each AARP Virginia volunteer receives free in-depth training in skills and issues relating to their volunteer position.

Those interested in finding out how to become an AARP Virginia volunteer should call Brian Jacks at the Virginia State Office toll-free 1-866-542-8164 or e-mail.

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