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Meet Debra Sturgis Stamps: 15 Years of Giving Back in Mississippi

She came looking for purpose after retirement. She found it by serving others across Mississippi

AARP

Published September 16, 2026

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Debra Sturgis Stamps has volunteered her time and talents with AARP Mississippi and nonprofit organizations across the state for more than 15 years. Her commitment to serving others runs through everything she does.

Why Debra volunteers with AARP Mississippi

Debra volunteers with AARP Mississippi because its mission reflects her own values. She finds purpose in being part of an organization that creates real opportunities to serve others while also advocating for the needs, interests, and voices of people like her. For Debra, volunteering is not just an activity. It is an extension of who she is.

What Debra does for older adults in Mississippi

Debra actively supports AARP Mississippi's work on issues including Work & Save, Social Security, and family caregiving. She understands that meaningful change requires both community engagement and strong advocacy. She regularly encourages Mississippians to get informed and get involved.

As the lead volunteer for outreach, Debra facilitates community conversations on brain health and caregiving. Her welcoming personality makes complex information easier to understand and apply. She also leads community events and draws on her relationships with clubs and organizations across Mississippi to keep AARP Mississippi visible, active, and connected.

Debra's role as a trainer for new AARP Mississippi volunteers

Debra's leadership extends to preparing the next generation of volunteers. During the onboarding process, she introduces new volunteers to AARP Mississippi's work, explains what is expected of them, and helps them understand how their service can make a meaningful difference. Her guidance gives new volunteers the confidence and knowledge they need to represent AARP effectively.

Guiding her work is a motto inspired by Matthew 20:28: to serve rather than to be served. She lives that principle through her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to her community.

In Debra's own words

"The reason I volunteer with AARP is simple: it fulfills my soul. Helping others gives me a sense of purpose and allows me to continue sharing my gifts, experiences, and compassion with those around me.

"After my children grew up and moved on to live their own lives, I experienced what many call the 'empty nest' season. Retirement brought another transition, and I found myself searching for where I belonged and how I could continue making a difference. I needed to find my new place, a place where I could still have a positive impact on my community.

"I have always enjoyed interacting with people and meeting new faces. As a former educator, I have a lifelong love of learning and growing. Volunteering with AARP has allowed me to develop new skills, connect with others, and continue serving in meaningful ways. Most importantly, it has renewed my sense of purpose.

"Today, it is not just about why I began volunteering with AARP. It is about why I continue."

Volunteer with AARP Mississippi

Adults 50 and older and community members across Mississippi can follow Debra's example and give back. Volunteers like Debra help AARP Mississippi deliver programs, advance advocacy, and connect older adults with the resources they need.

Find volunteer opportunities in Mississippi Visit www.aarp.org/Mississippi

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