01 Mar 2025 Community volunteer receives highest award from AARP Arkansas

Posted at 11:36 AMh in News by

AARP Arkansas presented their 25th Andrus Award in front of a full house during a luncheon honoring volunteerism on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. The annual event allows the organization to recognize community members and AARP Arkansas volunteers who embody the principles of AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus.

Karen Walker, a well-known public speaker, community volunteer and advocate for people 50 years and older, received the 2024 Andrus Award for Community Service. She was nominated for her work with Arkansas Aging Wiser.

Ashley McBride (from left), state director; Joe Kirby, volunteer for Ozark Mission Project; 2024 Andrus Award winner Karen Walker, nominated by Arkansas Aging Wiser; Joan Diehl, co-chair of Age-Friendly Little Rock; Tonya Bell, with the city of Sherwood. Photo by Marcus Eubanks.

“Karen has shown remarkable courage in advocating for the needs and rights of seniors,” read the nomination application for AARP’s highest volunteer honor. “She often addresses sensitive and challenging topics, such as financial stability, health management, and legal rights, with a fearless determination to ensure seniors receive the support they deserve.” 

Other Andrus Award finalists include nominees Joe Kirby of Ozark Mission Project, Joan Diehl of Age-Friendly Little Rock and Tonya Bell of the City of Sherwood. 

AARP Arkansas also gave out their Distinguished Service Award to an AARP Arkansas volunteer who has contributed significant time to the organization and taken on leadership responsibilities during the year. Phyllis Peters, Hub 7 (Arkansas Delta region) leader, was selected as the winner by a panel of her peers.

Additional Distinguished Service Award nominees include AARP Arkansas Speakers Bureau Chair Sally Fittsizer, Volunteer Portal Champion Rita Qualls, Hub 2 Co-Lead Lisa Jones, and Brenda Jackson, an AARP Arkansas volunteer.

“Broadway” Joe Booker of Cumulus Radio served as the event emcee, and Pamela Smith, communications director of the Little Rock School District, gave the keynote presentation. State Director Ashley McBride shared an overview of the State Office’s 2024 accomplishments and its 2025 plans. Attendees enjoyed a reception, live music and a beautiful program at The Venue at Oakdale.