AARP CEO: Volunteering Creates the Opportunity to ‘Give Back and Impact Lives’

AARP has more than 58,000 volunteers across the country who contribute nearly 9 million hours of their time each year. They often match opportunities to give back with their own interests: Tech-savvy volunteers might share computer security tips through classes from Senior Planet from AARP, pop-culture fans can organize afternoon film screenings and those interested in advocacy can don one of AARP’s distinctive red shirts and talk to state or federal lawmakers about issues important to Americans 50-plus.

Craig feels like she’s making a difference, whether it’s sharing information on how to avoid scams or joining Wish of a Lifetime from AARP’s Cupid Crew in handing out roses each Valentine’s Day to older adults and residents in nursing homes. “We spend the afternoon interacting with someone who maybe hasn't had a visitor in a while,” Craig says.

Minter-Jordan appreciates what volunteers bring to AARP and praised Craig’s commitment. “I just have to say how grateful I am for your time, for your energy, for your dedication to our mission, for the way in which you champion all of these issues for older adults in your community, both locally and nationally,” she told Craig.

Continued learning and engagement

The flexibility AARP offers — you can volunteer as much or as little as you want — is also a plus. “Unlike a lot of volunteering, I can do it when I want to do it,” Craig says. When her grandchild visits, she takes a break to devote her time to him, she told Minter-Jordan.

That balance, paired with a growing network of friends and experiences, has enriched Craig’s retirement in ways she didn’t expect. She has developed close friendships, and her fellow volunteers keep her connected to her city and open her up to other interests. Craig says she might hear about a concert coming to town or find out where to buy a ticket for an African dance performance through conversations with other volunteers. 

More importantly, AARP offers her a chance to share her talents and learn new ones. She practiced decluttering to prepare to give a workshop on the topic and leads programs such as “Walk With a Doc,” which gives people a chance to take a stroll through a park with a medical professional and discuss health information.

“Getting this opportunity to be able to give back and impact the lives, the health, the welfare of so many people in your community — that must feel so rewarding,” Minter-Jordan told Craig. “In lifting yourself up, you've also lifted others up.”

Craig would like others to experience what she has through AARP. “When somebody asks you to volunteer, sometimes you have [to] say yes.… It'll open you up to other things,” Craig says. “You have no idea what they'll be, but usually they're pretty nice."