Understanding AARP's Foundation and Evolution
AARP was founded in 1958 by Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired educator, initially as the American Association of Retired Persons. This built upon her earlier work in 1947 with the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) to address the need for affordable health insurance for older Americans. In 1999, the organization rebranded as simply AARP to better reflect its broader mission to serve all individuals aged 50 and older, including those still working. While focusing on the 50+ demographic, membership is open to anyone 18 or older.
The Three Pillars of AARP's Work
1. Advocacy and Lobbying
AARP is known for its influential advocacy on behalf of older Americans at all levels of government. It is nonpartisan and does not endorse political candidates but advocates for policies affecting its members. Key advocacy areas include protecting Social Security and Medicare, lowering prescription drug costs, combating age discrimination, consumer protection, and supporting family caregivers.
2. Information and Resources
Providing valuable information, AARP publishes AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin, major circulation publications covering health, finances, and lifestyle. Its website offers extensive resources on retirement, health, and wellness. AARP also provides educational programs like the AARP Smart Driver course.
3. Products, Services, and Discounts
Members receive benefits through partnerships, including access to insurance options (health, auto, home) and discounts on travel, restaurants, entertainment, and technology. Additional benefits include prescription drug discounts and financial products.
How AARP's Structure Powers its Mission
AARP operates as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit social welfare organization, enabling it to engage in lobbying. Affiliates include the AARP Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity assisting low-income older adults, and AARP Services, Inc., a for-profit subsidiary managing licensed products and services. This structure allows revenue from membership and royalties to fund its mission.
Comparison of AARP and its Foundation
| Feature | AARP (501(c)(4)) | AARP Foundation (501(c)(3)) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Advocacy, lobbying, member services, publications | Charitable work, grants, fighting senior poverty, legal aid |
| Lobbying Activities | Engages directly in extensive lobbying and political advocacy. | Cannot engage in significant lobbying to maintain its charitable status. |
| Funding Source | Membership dues, royalties from products/services, advertising. | Federal grants, donations, and transfers from AARP. |
| Beneficiaries | Over 38 million members aged 50+ and the wider public. | Socioeconomically disadvantaged older adults and low-income seniors. |
Conclusion: AARP's Enduring Influence
As a nonpartisan, nonprofit membership and advocacy organization, AARP significantly impacts healthy aging and senior care. Through lobbying, information, and benefits, it is a vital resource for millions aged 50 and older. Its comprehensive approach, including its charitable foundation, addresses diverse needs from financial security to well-being. Understanding its structure reveals its wide-ranging impact on older adults.
Visit AARP's official website for more information on membership and benefits.
