Volunteering with AARP

Source: AARP.org |  | January 27, 2006

AARP’s commitment to volunteer service first grew from the vision of our founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. Her motto, "to serve, not to be served," helped shape our volunteer efforts at the national, state, and local levels as a means of achieving a positive impact on our society.

AARP continues to offer a range of opportunities where volunteers can put their time, skills and experience to good use. Working closely with community partners, teams of volunteers ensure that important AARP programs are available in their community. Others help with a variety of community events that inform, protect and empower adults 50+ on a range of important issues. And, those who apply for and are selected to hold key volunteer leadership positions are helping to guide, shape, and/or advance AARP’s state or national priorities.

Together, AARP volunteers and staff are working to enhance the quality of life for all as we age by achieving positive social change through information, advocacy and service. Here’s what you can do to help:

Hands on Community Programs

If you are interested in having direct interaction with others in your community, consider volunteering with one of AARP’s community based volunteer programs.

Through AARP Tax-Aide* and the AARP Driver Safety Program, volunteers fill a variety of assignments related to program management, administration, operations and hands-on service of a local program. Each year, program volunteers help 2.5 million people file tax returns and nearly 600,000 course graduates learn roadway safety tips at conveniently located sites. Volunteers are needed nation-wide.

And, in certain states, you could help older or disabled persons track their financial matters through the AARP Money Management Program* or locate and apply for additional financial assistance through the AARP Benefits Outreach Program*.

Today, AARP is expanding the opportunities we provide for people to help in their communities and beyond. Create The Good enables people to make a difference in the lives of others, whether through a five-minute online commitment or an ongoing engagement.

Community Activities

In addition to ongoing volunteer service through one of AARP’s community based programs, you can volunteer for other AARP community projects and activities. One example is the annual AARP Day of Service on May 14, 2009. AARP volunteers and staff devote the day to working on special community projects. On this day, you can support this effort by volunteering with a local organization or assisting elderly or disabled persons in your community.

And, if you are a member of an AARP Chapter or NRTA: AARP’s Educators Community, you can also volunteer for a number of community projects. As centers of community volunteerism and fellowship, AARP Chapters provide a range of services including mentoring activities, food and clothing drives, friendly visits and much more. Similarly, NRTA members are encouraged to help children and the larger community by tutoring, providing school supplies and books, and collecting food and clothing.

National and State Volunteers

AARP volunteers also hold many critical leadership positions at the national and state levels. They help set national policy and serve in important advisory roles. AARP policy and legislative decisions are made at the national level by the volunteer Board of Directors. And, the volunteer National Legislative Council provides valuable input.

AARP volunteers also serve as state volunteer leaders helping to develop and advance state priorities. Others apply specialty skills in assisting with communications to individuals, groups and the media about the organization's programs and priorities and with training of volunteers on key issues. Likewise, others are engaged in various outreach activities throughout the state. 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. Also, you can visit our Volunteering section of the Web site for more information on other volunteer opportunities.

*This is a program of the AARP Foundation, AARP's charitable organization.