AARP Utah's Community Networks: Serving, Learning, Enjoying

By: State: Utah | Source: AARP.org

Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, founder of AARP in 1958, said, "The challenge, to live up to our better selves, to believe well of our fellow men and perhaps by doing so to help create the good, to experiment, to explore, to change, and to grow."

AARP Utah members and interested citizens coalesce as community networks throughout the state to "create the good." These networks encompass AARP's traditional volunteer programs known as Tax-Aide and Driver Safety. They also include membership groups known as chapters and retired school employees that meet often for educational and social enrichment. Together they represent a group of civic-minded citizens who care about their community and connect with each other for events and activities that improve their lives and those of their fellow citizens.

AARP Utah Connecting events within a community serve many purposes including: social, educational and community service—often all three at once! This spring we held a series of "Connect to Serve" days in some areas of the state, some in partnership with community food banks to build and replenish needed supplies.

In addition to through our traditional programs, AARP is also able to offer our members and other Utahns a chance to serve through other avenues. These opportunities can be found at Create The Good. Many are short, episodic encounters such as helping neighbors by caulking windows and doors to conserve energy. Individuals can choose to participate and customize their experience to their interests and available time. In turn, they become part of a community network of volunteers that gives them the opportunity to participate in other educational, social, or advocacy events as they choose.
 
If you'd like to learn more about becoming a part of the AARP Utah Community Network in your area, use this link to contact your region's AARP Utah coordinator. Once on that page, scroll down to your region and click on the Area Coordinator's name and it will bring you to their email. You may also contact Gail Goodwin in the AARP Utah state office at 1-866-448-3616 or via email: ggoodwin@aarp.org.

Join us in making a difference in our Utah communities by working together to improve the lives of all generations!