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Celebrating AARP South Dakota’s Outstanding Volunteer Leaders

Karla Abbott of Sioux Falls Receives Prestigious Andrus Award

AARP

Published February 10, 2026

AARP South Dakota State Office

AARP South Dakota welcomed volunteers from across the state to Pierre on January 27–28, 2026, for the annual Volunteer Summit and Lobby Day—a two‑day gathering focused on connection, learning and celebrating community impact.

Honoring Exceptional Service: The Andrus Award

AARP South Dakota State Office

This year’s AARP South Dakota Andrus Award for Community Service, the organization’s highest honor, was presented to Karla Abbott of Sioux Falls. Named for AARP Founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, the award recognizes volunteers who embody the belief that “a life fulfilled is a life dedicated to service.”

Abbott’s career spans 38 years in nursing and education, and her work has reached far beyond the classroom and clinic. She has championed initiatives that protect the health of Native American communities and has advanced efforts to increase Native American participation in STEM fields.

“Karla exemplifies ‘service’ in so many ways,” said Erik Gaikowski, AARP South Dakota state director. “For nearly a decade, she has led local activities, lent her voice to advocacy efforts, and served on our volunteer Executive Council. As an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe from Eagle Butte, she has been key in helping AARP South Dakota connect with rural and Native American communities on issues like Social Security, Medicaid Expansion, and Family Caregiving—an area she understands deeply as a caregiver for her father.”

Celebrating Community Leadership

AARP South Dakota State Office

The 2025 Community Leadership Award was presented to Doris Ann Werlinger of Rapid City in recognition of her 25 years of dedication to AARP South Dakota. Werlinger has worn nearly every volunteer hat possible—from coordinating the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide and Driver Safety programs to supporting advocacy initiatives and helping run community events. She now leads the AARP South Dakota Information Center at Uptown Rapid Mall. Her leadership has helped expand AARP’s reach and strengthen its presence across western South Dakota.

Amplifying AARP's Mission

Melodee and Dave Johnson of Sioux Falls received the 2025 AARP Amplifier Award for their enthusiastic advocacy and event participation. The Johnsons are familiar faces at Sioux Falls events and have been volunteering with AARP for more than a decade. Their warm, welcoming approach helps spark conversations and encourages people to learn more about AARP’s resources and mission. As “amplifiers,” they play a key role in sharing AARP South Dakota’s message with new audiences.

A Celebration of Volunteers

“While we present only one Andrus Award each year, every one of our volunteers embodies the spirit of AARP’s founder as they spark change and improve their communities one act at a time,” Gaikowski said. “Our annual summit is a highlight of the year—a chance to come together, learn, and say ‘thank you’ to those who give so much.”

This year’s summit theme, Red, White and YOU!, connected the celebration to America’s upcoming 250th birthday in 2026 and highlighted the essential role volunteers play in strengthening their communities.

Volunteers participated in educational sessions focused on community engagement, event support, and resource sharing. They also spent a day at the State Capitol, attending committee meetings and hosting a lunch for legislators and staff in the Rotunda. Dressed in their signature red vests, volunteers were recognized in both the Senate and House chambers.

Getting Involved

To learn more about volunteer opportunities with AARP South Dakota, or for information about our advocacy work, please connect with us by emailing sdaarp@aarp.org or calling 866-542-8172.