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Local volunteer wins top AARP award

October 03, 2006

AARP Kentucky has named Winchester resident Don Rose as the winner of the 2006 Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association's most prestigious and visible volunteer award. The award is given annually to the person in each state whose volunteer efforts best symbolize that individuals have the power and ability to make a difference in the lives of others.AARP Kentucky selected Rose for his untiring leadership for the Veterans' History project, for his efforts to feed the poor and elderly in Winchester and surrounding areas, and his remarkable service as an AARP driver training instructor.

As the lead volunteer in the Veterans' History Project in his area, Rose has amassed more than 100 recorded histories of American war veterans to be entered into the archives of the Library of Congress. Rose also has trained dozens of volunteers to capture these soon-to-be-forgotten stories and encouraged Morehead State University to include World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans' histories as part of the history curriculum.

In addition, Rose serves on the Marine Corps League of Winchester Honor Guard and assists at the funerals of all veterans in the Clark County area.

Each year, Rose raises vegetables and shares the produce with older neighbors who need assistance. He also visits regularly with several home-bound individuals and has organized free meals on the annual AARP Day of Service to feed those less fortunate. As an active member and officer of AARP Chapter 632, Rose regularly transports members to chapter meetings and events in Winchester and to advocate for senior issues in Frankfort.

As an AARP driver training instructor, Rose has spent countless hours teaching older Kentucky drivers defensive driving techniques to keep them safer on the highways.

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service recognizes members and volunteers who, through volunteer service, are significantly enhancing the lives of individuals age 50 and older.

Recipients across the nation were chosen for their ability to enhance the lives of AARP members and prospective members, improve the community in or for which the work was performed and inspire others to volunteer. The 2006 AARP Kentucky Andrus Award will be presented to Rose at an invitation-only luncheon in Winchester on Oct. 20.

Rose is past president and an active member of local AARP Chapter 632.

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