Intergenerational Events Highlight AARP Day of Service

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Thanks to students, members of the Arkansas Retired Teachers Association and AARP members in Fort Smith working together, the homeless and other men and women who attend a local adult day care center got free, hand made blankets and foot stools this spring. The gifts were made at Fort Smith Northside Senior High School on AARP’s 2008 National Day of Service (DoS), May 8th. Fort Smith Mayor Ray Baker presented a proclamation to AARP in observance of its annual community service day.

Hundreds of AARP employees, volunteers, and members observed the Day of Service by finding innovative ways to serve their communities in the spirit of AARP’s founder, the Late Ethel Percy Andrus. Because of Andrus’ civic mindedness, AARP’s motto has long been “to serve, not be served.” Special emphasis was placed on intergenerational community service projects and other types of community service projects in observance of this year’s Day of Service.

In central Arkansas, for example, two AARP chapters gave back to their communities in creative, but different, ways.

• The Maumelle AARP Chapter hosted about 150 people and gathered Divided We Fail pledges at its third Day of Service, Maumelle Senior Health Fair at the Jess Odom Community Center in Maumelle. Activities included: Door prizes were provided very half hour; free lunches; free speakers every half hour; including Dr. David Lipschitz; free chair massages; free Medicare card lamination; free blood pressure checks; and a brown bag discussion with a local pharmacist about all their medicines.

• The Highland Park AARP Chapter entertained residents of Quapaw Quarter Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Little Rock. Chapter members enjoyed a sing-along with the residents, reading and donating socks for residents.

All over Arkansas, about 906 AARP members in 34 chapters and Retired Teachers gave of their time and talents to help others on May 8.

“We began this observance after the tragic events of 9-11,” said Billie Ann Myers, AARP Arkansas state president. “AARP’s Day of Service has taken place on the second Thursday in May for the past 8 years.”

Maria Reynolds-Diaz, AARP Arkansas state president, added “We continue this each year because community needs continue to be significant and our members and volunteers are committed to reaching out in order to make life better for people 50 and over, wherever they live.”

Make a Difference
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