My first involvement with AARP
was in the mid-1980s. Amzia Wheeler, an AARP Tax-Aide volunteer, asked
me to help find a suitable Tax-Aide location in Owensboro, Kentucky,
where I lived. In 1996, I was appointed AARP Kentucky State President,
and today Amzia and I are both still AARP volunteers. Chairing AARP
Foundation’s Board of Directors has been one of my finest experiences.
Throughout my career, I’ve administered programs at the local level
that help people remain independent in their own homes. I’ve seen what
the good life can look like after 50, as well as the desperation of
life without health and financial security.
As AARP’s philanthropic arm, the AARP Foundation brings attention to
mid-life and older Americans at risk of falling into poverty and helps
them improve their quality of life.
This year, we established five-year goals based on opportunity, justice
and security, to help people struggling to meet basic needs after age
50. Sadly, the gap between the “haves” and “have-nots” widens daily
and the most impoverished mid-life and older Americans are minority
women.
As you read about this year’s accomplishments and the people whose
lives we’ve touched, you’ll see we’re on the right track and steadily
gaining momentum.
I’m proud of AARP Foundation Litigation, the premier legal voice on
aging issues. Thanks to Money Management volunteers, people are able
to pay bills on time, remain in their homes and keep their homes.
How many con artists were thwarted by our fraud fighters and ElderWatchers?
How many individuals and families will experience significant life improvements
through our women’s programs? Consider the millions who have peace of
mind, thanks to our Tax-Aide and Senior Community Service Employment
Programs.
Our job is immense, yet as our work and accomplishments grow, so will
our donors and our ability to do even more.
Last summer, I spoke at a women’s conference at a church near my home.
I talked about the importance of mentoring, saving and preparing for
health and financial security throughout life.
As we mingled after the program, the women approached me, individually,
to share their personal difficulties. One was diagnosed with untreatable
cancer; another with health problems was caring for her mother who also
had health problems; all struggled with medical and financial woes.
Each woman fit into the Foundation’s target groups. They desperately
needed a champion for change. As the living legacy of AARP’s founder,
Ethel Percy Andrus, we must take a stand and create opportunities for
at-risk 50+ Americans.
Let’s vigorously continue this humbling task as we prepare for the
challenges that lie ahead.
Nelda Barnett, Chair
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