AARP is accepting nominations for its 2024 Washington Andrus Award for Community Service, which honors 50-plus Washingtonians who are sharing their experience, talent, and skills to enrich the lives of their community members.   

In 2023, AARP Washington recognized Bill Meyer of Spokane, who – after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s – went on the offensive and used his love of the outdoors to help others. In 2016, he founded Pass to Pass, a non-profit which provides opportunities for people with Parkinson’s disease to participate in supported multi-day backpacking trips that build confidence, cultivate community, nourish well-being, and minimize symptoms through exercise.

Andrus Award nominees must meet the following eligibility requirements:

* 50 or older.

• Their achievements or accomplishments on which the nomination is based:must have been performed on a volunteer basis (volunteers receiving small stipends to cover the costs associated with the volunteer activity are eligible), must reflect AARP’s vision and purpose,.and must provide inspiration for others to volunteer.

·   Partisan political achievements, accomplishments or service may not be considered.

·  Couples or partners who perform service together are eligible; but teams aren’t. 

Nominations forms are available at www.aarp.org/andrusaward or aarpwa@aarp.org. The nomination deadline is July 15.  

The award recipient will be honored at ceremony and have an opportunity to bestow a $2,000 donation to a non-profit organization of their choice. 

The Andrus Award for Community Service is presented annually. Last year, it went to 49 individuals and couples around the country.