Across Oregon, countless community programs, neighborhood initiatives, nonprofit organizations, and support networks depend on the dedication of volunteers who quietly invest their time and expertise to help others. Many of those individuals have spent decades building careers, raising families, and gaining valuable life experience before choosing to channel those skills into service that benefits their communities.
Now, AARP Oregon is inviting residents to help recognize some of those contributions through the 2026 Andrus Award for Community Service, the organization’s highest state-level volunteer honor. Nominations are currently being accepted for Oregonians age 50 and older whose volunteer efforts have created meaningful and lasting improvements in the lives of others.
The annual award shines a light on individuals who use their knowledge, leadership abilities, and personal experience to address local needs, strengthen community organizations, and encourage civic engagement. As volunteer-driven programs continue to play an important role in communities large and small throughout Oregon, the recognition aims to acknowledge those whose service often takes place outside the public eye.
Named in honor of AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, the award recognizes volunteers whose work reflects a commitment to community improvement and inspires others to become involved. The program is considered AARP’s most visible and prestigious volunteer recognition effort at the state level.
Recipients are selected based on several factors, including the impact of their volunteer service, the extent to which their efforts have benefited their communities, and their ability to motivate others to contribute their time and talents. The award is designed not only to celebrate individual achievement but also to highlight the broader value of volunteerism and community engagement.
In addition to statewide recognition, the award carries a financial benefit for nonprofit organizations. The individual selected as Oregon’s 2026 recipient will direct a $1,000 donation to a nonprofit organization of their choice. An additional $1,000 donation will be designated by the person who submitted the winning nomination, creating support for community organizations while honoring volunteer leadership.
The award has recognized a wide range of volunteers across the country who have devoted years to improving the lives of others. In Oregon, last year’s recipient was Elaine Friesen-Strang, who was honored for more than a decade of volunteer leadership with AARP Oregon and for her efforts to advance age-friendly and livable communities throughout the state. Her work included helping guide organizational strategy, launching initiatives, and mentoring emerging volunteer leaders.
AARP Oregon State Director Bandana Shrestha emphasized the important role older volunteers continue to play in communities throughout the state.
“Across Oregon, volunteers 50+ are stepping up in powerful ways to strengthen their communities,” said Shrestha. “We encourage Oregonians to help us shine a light on these unsung heroes.”
The recognition comes at a time when many nonprofit organizations, community groups, and public-service programs increasingly rely on volunteers to help meet growing needs. From mentoring youth and supporting older adults to assisting food banks, civic organizations, and neighborhood improvement projects, volunteers often provide services that would otherwise be difficult to sustain.
Nominations for the 2026 Andrus Award for Community Service will remain open through August 15. Following a review process conducted by AARP Oregon, the recipient will be announced in early fall.
For communities throughout Oregon, the award offers an opportunity to recognize individuals whose commitment to service has helped strengthen neighborhoods, improve quality of life, and create lasting positive change. While many volunteers rarely seek recognition for their efforts, the annual program serves as a reminder that community progress is often built through the dedication of people willing to give their time in service to others.