Edward J. Drew Recognized for Volunteer Efforts

Edward J. Drew, of East Greenwich, has been selected by AARP, the nonprofit membership organization for people 50 and over, to receive Rhode Island’s 2009 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious and visible volunteer award.  This award symbolizes that individuals have the power and ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

AARP Rhode Island selected Drew, who holds a Doctor of Music Appreciation from Boston University, for his remarkable service and for the impact he has had on the lives of others and on his community.  Drew’s record of achievement, service and commitment in his volunteer role as Chair of the Rhode Island Retired Music Educators Group and as a unit member of the Rhode Island Retired Teachers’ Association has revitalized both organizations.  

He has spent most of his life as a teacher and mentor in the music field.  Drew and his band donate time entertaining at various organizations and nursing homes to bring music into their lives.  He also travels to schools around the state to discuss and perform music for children of all ages.

Through a grant from the National Music Educators Association, Drew and his colleagues has developed a mentoring program for new music educators.

Through his dedication, hard work and tremendous energy, the mentoring and resource program Drew and other educators have developed will have an impact on many people young and old for years to come. He provides an extraordinary example of the difference that volunteering can make in the lives of individuals and in the well -being and vitality of a community.

 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 over. The award will be formally presented to Dr. Drew in a ceremony before an audience of several hundred AARP members and volunteers on Friday, November 6, 2009 at the West Valley Inn in West Warwick.

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