Origins of the AARP Motto: A Founder's Philosophy
The AARP's enduring motto, "To serve, not to be served," originated with the organization's founder, Ethel Percy Andrus. A retired educator, Andrus started the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) in 1947 after being shocked to learn many of her fellow retired teachers were living in poverty with inadequate health insurance. Her work to secure group health insurance for this population was driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of service and collective action. When she expanded the organization in 1958 to include all retirees, rebranding it as the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), the motto remained a core tenet.
Andrus's personal philosophy of "productive aging" was instrumental in shaping the AARP's initial purpose. She believed that aging should not be a period of withdrawal but a time of purpose and continued contribution to society. The motto reflects this ethos, framing the organization's work as a selfless act of giving back to the community rather than simply receiving benefits. This emphasis on service has been woven into the fabric of the AARP's operations for more than six decades, from its extensive network of volunteers to its broad advocacy campaigns.
The Motto's Connection to AARP's Core Principles
Beyond just a phrase, the motto is directly connected to the core principles that guided the AARP's founding. Dr. Andrus established the association on the concepts of collective purpose, collective voice, and collective purchasing power. The motto, "To serve, not to be served," is the moral compass that directs these efforts, ensuring they are focused on the greater good of older adults and not just the organization's self-interest.
- Collective Purpose: The motto inspires a shared mission among members and volunteers to improve the lives of others. Programs like AARP's Create the Good® connect volunteers to flexible service opportunities, demonstrating this purpose in action.
- Collective Voice: By advocating on behalf of its members, AARP uses its considerable influence to create positive social change. The motto ensures this powerful voice is used for the benefit of the community, pushing for policies that affect health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment.
- Collective Purchasing Power: While the AARP offers many benefits and discounts to members, the motto suggests this is not the primary purpose. The collective purchasing power is a tool to be leveraged for the overall well-being of the 50-plus community, delivering value through carefully vetted, high-quality products and services.
Motto vs. Mission Statement: A Key Distinction
While the motto, "To serve, not to be served," encapsulates the spirit of the AARP, it is distinct from the organization's mission statement. The mission provides a more specific and detailed explanation of how AARP works to fulfill its goals, while the motto is a concise and inspirational summary of its underlying philosophy. Understanding the difference is crucial for a complete picture of the organization's identity.
| Feature | Motto | Mission Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Expression | "To serve, not to be served" | "To enhance the quality of life for all as we age" |
| Purpose | Captures the founding philosophy and spirit of volunteerism. | Explains the specific work the organization does (advocacy, information, service). |
| Function | Serves as an internal guiding principle and public-facing statement of values. | Outlines the organization's reason for existing and its operational objectives. |
| Origin | Created by founder Ethel Percy Andrus. | Evolved over time to reflect the organization's modern objectives and scope. |
| Example of Application | Inspiring volunteers and staff to dedicate their time and effort to community programs. | Informing strategies to lobby for lower prescription drug costs or improved Social Security benefits. |
How the AARP Puts Its Motto into Practice
The AARP's commitment to service is visible through a wide range of programs and initiatives aimed at empowering older adults. The organization's reach extends beyond providing discounts to actively engaging in community outreach, advocacy, and education.
- Advocacy: As a powerful nonpartisan advocate, the AARP lobbies Congress and state legislatures on issues affecting the 50-plus demographic, including Social Security, Medicare, and age discrimination.
- Community Service: Volunteer programs, such as AARP Foundation's free tax preparation service (Tax-Aide) and the Driver Safety program, provide tangible, hands-on assistance to communities.
- Information and Resources: The organization provides free, reliable information through publications like AARP The Magazine and its website, covering everything from financial planning to health and wellness.
- Fraud Protection: The AARP Fraud Watch Network offers crucial information and alerts to help people protect themselves from scams, reflecting the organization's protective and service-oriented nature.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Service
The motto, "To serve, not to be served," is more than a historical footnote for the AARP; it is the philosophical bedrock that continues to inform its work. From its origins in Ethel Percy Andrus's volunteer efforts to its modern-day role as a major advocate and service provider for older Americans, the organization's identity is defined by this selfless principle. The motto inspires countless volunteers and guides advocacy and programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for millions, ensuring that the legacy of its founder continues to create a society where all can age with dignity and purpose.
