Message from the State President

Greetings! I welcome this opportunity to express how delighted I am to accept AARP’s volunteer helm in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is a prestigious honor to lead those who willingly sacrifice their time and energy to selflessly give back to others. I truly believe that I will reap the personal reward that comes with being in service to my community and working with an organization that seeks to make a positive difference.

AARP’s mission is one I embrace, and the motto established by our founder Ethel Percy Andrus, "To serve, not to be served", sends a valuable message. I was raised in the Virgin Islands, in a family that believes in service and giving back, thus this role is a perfect fit.

It is my desire to work with others who also want to give back. Volunteerism is an important contribution we can all make, and I invite all of you to come onboard. AARP Virgin Islands is very proud of our membership. Nearly twenty percent of our territory’s population has seen the benefit and signed up to be a part of this organization, and an impressive number has also chosen to serve as volunteers. With this enthusiastic and strong team of supporters, AARP has become a key player in the Virgin Islands community.

Our key issue right now is Health Care Reform. Every Virgin Islander has the right to affordable and quality health care. And, we are prompting the Administration and Legislature to take the necessary action to achieve this. There is much that has to be done in this area. AARP will be working steadfastly to keep this matter at the forefront of each policymaker’s mind.

Positive social change is our focus, and AARP’s ultimate goal is to represent the needs and interests of Virgin Islands residents age 50 and over. We want to help you make the most of life after 50 through information, education, advocacy and community outreach. There’s a place for you in this organization. We hope that you’ll join us and help us work towards meeting our goals. I personally look forward to this new assignment and working with each of you to meet the challenges ahead.

Paul G. Simmonds, PhD
State President, AARP Virgin Islands