Help Recognize Arkansas’ Volunteer Heroes: Nominations for the 2026 Andrus Award are now open

AARP Arkansas is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Andrus Award for Community Service, which honors an Arkansas resident age 50 or older who shares their experience, talent, and skills to enrich their community and enhance the lives of its residents. Nominations may be submitted by members of the public at large, including AARP members and volunteers, as well as external organizations and groups.

“AARP Arkansas is so pleased to have the chance to annually recognize one of our amazing community volunteers. These are people who leverage their life experiences to inspire positive change and make a real, enduring impact within their communities,” said Ashley McBride, State Director for AARP Arkansas.

 Nominations will be evaluated by AARP Arkansas’ selection committee based on how the volunteer’s work has improved the community, reflected AARP’s mission and vision, and inspired other volunteers. The award recipient will be announced in fall 2026. In addition to public recognition, the recipient receives a cash award.

MEMBERS ONLY

 Eligibility requirements for AARP Arkansas Andrus Award for Community Service nominees:

• Nominees must be 50 years of age or older, live in the awarding state, and do not need to be an AARP volunteer or an AARP member. Married couples or domestic partners who perform service together are eligible; however, teams are not.
• The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must have been performed on a volunteer basis, without pay. Volunteers receiving small stipends to cover costs associated with the volunteer activity are eligible.
• The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nominations are based must be replicable and inspire others to serve. Partisan political achievements, accomplishments, or service may not be considered.
• Not eligible: previous Andrus Award recipients, volunteers serving on the Andrus Award selection committee, AARP staff members, elected or appointed officials currently serving in office, and candidates currently campaigning for an elected office.
• This is not a posthumous award.

 The application deadline is July 15, 2026. The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service is an annual awards program developed to honor individuals whose service is a unique and valuable contribution to society. Last year, AARP recognized outstanding individuals in nearly every state. To submit a Arkansas Andrus Award nomination, visit https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/andrus-award-nominations.