Understanding the AARP Purpose Prize
The AARP Purpose Prize is an annual national award celebrating individuals aged 50 and older who have founded nonprofit organizations with a focus on social impact. Administered by AARP, the award highlights the belief that aging can be a period of innovation and contribution. It aims to inspire others by showcasing older adults who are powerful agents for social good.
Who is Eligible for the Award?
Eligibility for the AARP Purpose Prize is specific. Applicants must be 50 or older, a founder or co-founder of a nonprofit (founded when they were 40 or older), and actively involved in the organization. They must be legal U.S. residents, and the organization must be a qualified 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofit or fiscally sponsored project with a non-exclusively religious focus.
The Purpose Prize vs. Other Philanthropic Awards
The AARP Purpose Prize distinguishes itself through its focus on age and the founding of new social ventures later in life. It's not a lifetime achievement award but celebrates current contributions.
| Feature | AARP Purpose Prize | Typical Philanthropic Award |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Recognizes individuals age 50+ who founded impactful nonprofits. | Often recognizes individuals at any age, based on the magnitude of their contributions throughout their career. |
| Inspiration | Celebrates how life experience informs and inspires innovative solutions to social problems. | Honors a broad range of achievements, including fundraising, management, and advocacy. |
| Financial Award | Provides substantial funding ($50,000 or more) directly to the winner's nonprofit organization. | Can vary widely, and may sometimes be given directly to the individual rather than the organization. |
| Ongoing Support | Offers a year of technical support, coaching, and networking opportunities to strengthen the organization. | May offer a financial prize only, with no additional support for organizational growth. |
| Eligibility | Highly specific age and founding criteria, focusing on those who start new ventures later in life. | Often broader, with eligibility based on industry, mission, or duration of service. |
The Impact and Legacy of the Winners
Purpose Prize winners represent diverse causes, including healthcare, education, and social justice. Beyond monetary awards, winners join a network and receive professional support like coaching and strategic planning to scale their impact and create a lasting legacy. This recognition provides a national platform for their work.
How Winners are Chosen
The selection process involves multiple stages. External reviewers narrow down applicants in initial rounds, followed by selections by AARP staff and reviewers for semi-finalist and finalist stages. A jury of national leaders interviews finalists before selecting winners, with final approval from an AARP Executive. The process evaluates the problem addressed, solution effectiveness, impact, and sustainability.
Conclusion
The AARP Purpose Prize highlights the valuable contributions of older adults in creating social change. By honoring these nonprofit founders, AARP supports solutions to societal problems and promotes a positive view of aging as a time of purpose and impact.
For more information on the award and its recipients, visit the official AARP website.
