In His Own Words: A Lifetime of Caring

When he was growing up, Ken Westhassel watched his mother transcribe books into Braille as a volunteer. It made a big impact, teaching him the importance of caring for others in the community. He now lives in Medford, Massachusetts, enjoys being part of his senior community center, and makes frequent visits to the local public library. He recently told us a little about himself and what motivated him to leave a legacy gift to AARP Foundation.

Tom McSpedden and Erika Murdoch

Although I intended to have a career in conducting and studied at the Berklee Music School and New England Conservatory, I instead started working at Boston University School of Law. During my 37 years at the university, I learned so much about the law. I even had the chance to meet Supreme Court justices, former U.S. Representatives, and governors. While I didn’t return to formal music studies, classical music and opera as well as theater continue to be a big part of my life.

As I was considering my future, I decided to make a gift to AARP Foundation through my retirement investment account, established when I was working at BU. I am happy knowing the money will be available at the end of my life to help AARP Foundation keep fighting for seniors. 

In my own community, I know there are other seniors not as fortunate to have the resources I enjoy. And food is expensive. I pass by a couple of free food pantries on my way to visit our senior center once a week — I usually see people in line. I am very grateful to have what I need to live comfortably and believe it is my responsibility to help others.

Now that I'm 77, and an LGBTQ person remembering my earlier political and social activist days, my experiences have helped me understand much more the best ways to help. I am remaining active, continuing my learning, volunteering my time to others, and building hope for my future; in return, I hope to have the privilege of growing older, better, more knowledgeable, and stronger in my outlook on life.

I encourage everyone to support AARP Foundation's generous and helpful programs in their own way.  

Learn more about including AARP Foundation in your estate plan.

Read more stories about how our programs have helped people find hope, and about the volunteers who give so much of themselves to help others.

Natosha Hayward (left) and Stephanie McGuire (right) conduct a community organization training session.