AARP is now accepting nominations for its 2023 Connecticut Andrus Award for Community Service, an annual award honoring 50+ volunteers in the state who are sharing their experience, talent, and skills to enrich the lives of their community members. The deadline to nominate an outstanding individual for AARP’s most prestigious volunteer award is August 1, 2023. Nominations can be made online at www.aarp.org/AndrusAward.

In addition, AARP Connecticut will donate $3000 on behalf of the Andrus Award winner to an eligible non-profit organization of their choosing.

AARP Connecticut is excited to shine a light on 50+ volunteers in our state who are using what they’ve learned in life to make a difference in the lives around them. We know that you have seen and experienced the impact that a dedicated, caring, and experienced volunteer can have on lives, programs, communities, and society. This is an opportunity to recognize that impact and to let outstanding volunteers know that their service is valued.

AARP Connecticut Andrus Award for Community Service nominees must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Nominees must be 50 years or older. They do not have to be an AARP member.
• 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 the costs associated with the volunteer activity are eligible.
• The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must reflect AARP’s vision and purpose, as well as be replicable and provide inspiration for others to volunteer.
• Couples or partners who perform service together are also eligible; however, teams are not eligible.
• Partisan political achievements, accomplishments, or service may not be considered.
• Previous Andrus Award recipients, volunteers serving on the Andrus Award selection committee, and AARP staff members are not eligible.
• This is not a posthumous award.

Nominations will be evaluated by a selection committee based on how the volunteer’s work positively impacts the lives of people, improves the community, reflects AARP’s vision and mission, and inspires others to volunteer. The award recipient will be announced in early fall.

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 49 outstanding individuals and couples from around the country.

Please take a few moments to think about the exceptional volunteers in your community. The deadline is August 1, 2023, so nominate them now. Additional details, as well as an online nomination form, can be found at www.aarp.org/AndrusAward. Please contact AARP Connecticut Program Specialist for Volunteer Engagement Marlisa Smith for further information at mesmith@aarp.org or call 860-548-3171.

Nora Duncan is the state director for AARP Connecticut.