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Call for Nominations: The 3rd Annual AARP Florida Esther "Tess" Canja Award for Exceptional Volunteerism

It's time once again to recognize one extraordinary individual with our highest volunteer honor.

AARP

photo from 2025 of Cheryl Jefferson receiving the Tess Canja award

AARP Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – At AARP Florida, we know the power of volunteers to drive meaningful change in communities across the state. Each day, our volunteers embody passion, leadership, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of Floridians 50+. And now, it’s time once again to recognize one extraordinary individual with our highest volunteer honor.

We are proud to open nominations for the Esther “Tess” Canja Award for Exceptional Volunteerism, named in honor of the late Tess Canja—a tireless advocate, trailblazer, and former AARP National President who dedicated her life to improving the lives of older Americans. The award is presented annually to an AARP Florida volunteer who reflects Tess's legacy of service, leadership, and impact.

The inaugural award was presented posthumously in 2024 to Tess Canja, whose daughter Deb Canja accepted on her behalf. It marked the beginning of a new tradition of honoring volunteers who lead with purpose and make a real difference in their local communities.

Now, we need your help to identify the next outstanding volunteer leader.

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Nomination Criteria

To be eligible for the Tess Canja Award, nominees must:

Be an active AARP Florida volunteer
Have accomplishments that reflect AARP’s vision and priorities, with a clear impact in their local community
Inspire others to serve and exemplify leadership, compassion, and commitment
Not be a current AARP Florida staff member or public office holder
Be nominated by an AARP Florida volunteer or staff member

Married couples or domestic partners who volunteer together may be nominated, but teams are not eligible.

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Submit Your Nomination

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond in their volunteer role, leading by example and inspiring others to serve? Nominate them for the 2026 Esther “Tess” Canja Award and help us celebrate the very best of AARP Florida volunteerism.

Nominations are now open until April 17.

Submit a Nomination for the 2026 Esther "Tess" Canja Award here.

For more information about the submission process or questions, contact Leo Tomasi Cabrera (ltomasicabrera@aarp.org)