Colton
Couple Honored with AARP Andrus Award
Highest state award for volunteer service
SEATTLE, WA - Dan and Joyce Leonard of Colton have been
recognized by AARP Washington for exemplary volunteerism and community service.
AARP Washington recognized Dan and Joyce, along with two others, as part of the
2016 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service. The Andrus Award is
AARP’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community
service to honor individuals and couples for their remarkable volunteer
efforts that have greatly benefited their communities, supported AARP’s
vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers. In Dan and Joyce’s honor,
AARP is donating $500 to the charity of their choice, the Whitman County Rural
Library District.
Dan and Joyce Leonard were nominated for their work as
Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) volunteers for
many years. Joyce started in August, 2009 and Dan followed in January,
2011. SHIBA is a free and unbiased service of the Office of the Washington
State Insurance commissioner that provides one-on-one assistance to
residents in an effort to help unravel the mysteries of Medicare. In November
alone, Dan and Joyce drove more than 600 miles visiting libraries in Whitman
County to provide SHIBA’s counseling services. They often work at several
libraries in a single day. Dan and Joyce developed a systematic plan in an
effort to assist as many people as possible during Medicare Open
Enrollment periods. They recognized a need in their rural county and
decided that it was their duty to act.
“The impact the Leonards have had upon area seniors is
immeasurable, “said Kristie Kirkpatrick, director of Whitman County Rural
Library District. “From saving participants thousands of dollars to bringing
peace of mind for those struggling to understand the confusing process, their
efforts have meant the world. You won’t meet nicer, more caring people than Dan
and Joyce. I am so pleased they are receiving this well-deserved honor.”
“This award acts as a symbol to the public that we can all work
together for positive social change,” says AARP Washington State Director Doug
Shadel. “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the
important contributions volunteers make to their communities, neighbors, and
the programs they serve.”
The Award is named after AARP’s Founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. AARP’s commitment to volunteer service can be traced back to Dr.
Andrus, whose motto “to serve, not to be served” has shaped the AARP community
service efforts at the national, state, and local levels. Each year, AARP
honors the legacy of Dr. Andrus with the AARP Washington Andrus Award for
Community Service in each state.
About AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a
membership of nearly 38 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams
into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that
matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security,
retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse.
We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and
services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our
members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A
trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces
AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a
Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP
does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to
political campaigns or candidates. The
AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection,
and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of
volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states,
the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more
at www.aarp.org.
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