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Louisiana Volunteer Helen Ambeau Wins AARP's Highest State Honor

A decade of work, thousands of Louisiana lives changed

LaTonya Scott,

AARP Louisiana

Published August 21, 2026

Courtesy

AARP Louisiana has named Helen Valentine Ambeau of St. Gabriel the 2026 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service recipient. Her decade of disability advocacy has helped thousands of Louisiana residents gain access to critical home and community-based services.

What the Andrus Award Means in Louisiana

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service is AARP's most prestigious state volunteer honor. Named for AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, it recognizes individuals whose service, leadership, and commitment make a meaningful difference in others' lives. Each year in Louisiana, this recognition spotlights a volunteer whose work reflects AARP's core mission: empowering people 50 and older to live as they choose.

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In 2026, that recognition goes to Helen Valentine Ambeau of St. Gabriel.

"Helen embodies the spirit of service that the Andrus Award was created to recognize," said Denise Bottcher, AARP Louisiana state director. "Her commitment to advocacy, volunteer leadership, and improving the lives of others has made a lasting impact on communities throughout Louisiana."

A Decade of Disability Advocacy Across Louisiana

For Louisiana residents living with adult-onset disabilities and their families, Helen Ambeau has been a consistent and powerful voice. She has testified before legislative committees at the Louisiana State Capitol. She has also built trusted relationships with state and federal policymakers, advancing initiatives that improve quality of life and expand access to services.

Helen's work has shaped some of Louisiana's most significant disability policy achievements over the past decade. She helped secure annual increases in Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver slots for ten consecutive years. That effort expanded access to critical support for thousands of Louisianans. She also played a key role in establishing a legislative HCBS trust fund, advancing provider rate increases, and supporting nursing home reforms that expanded opportunities for community-based living.

Growing a Network of Advocates in Greater Baton Rouge

For volunteers and advocates in the Greater Baton Rouge area, Helen's leadership has had direct and lasting impact. She grew and energized AARP Louisiana's volunteer network, cultivating a strong corps of advocates across the state. Her grassroots efforts have transformed how AARP Louisiana engages communities and builds advocacy strength at the local level.

Service to Louisiana Beyond AARP

Helen's commitment to Louisiana extends beyond her AARP advocacy work. She is active in the Ladies Altar Society at St. Gabriel Catholic Church and the St. Gabriel Senior Center. This involvement reflects a lifelong dedication to serving neighbors and strengthening her community.

How Louisiana Is Recognizing Helen's Contributions

As part of the Andrus Award recognition, AARP Louisiana will donate $1,000 to the Southern University and A&M College General Scholarship Fund in Helen's honor. She will be formally recognized at an award ceremony in September 2026.

Are you a Louisiana resident interested in making a difference? Connect with AARP Louisiana to explore volunteer and advocacy opportunities in your community. Visit aarp.org/states/louisiana or call 1-866-448-3620.

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