AARP Foundation's Mission: Fighting Senior Poverty
The AARP Foundation, a charitable affiliate of AARP, focuses on creating and advancing effective solutions to reduce poverty for and with older adults. This addresses challenges such as economic hardship and social isolation. As a 501(c)(3) charitable entity, it can receive tax-deductible donations to support its work.
Key Program Areas and Initiatives
The Foundation offers programs to help low-income older adults. These include:
- Benefits Access: Assisting with applications for programs like SNAP and Medicare Savings Programs.
- Empowering Older Workers: Providing resources like career coaching and job training.
- Free Tax Assistance: Running AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, a free tax preparation service.
- Building Social Connections: Supporting programs to combat loneliness and isolation.
- Legal Advocacy: Fighting for the rights of older adults through litigation.
AARP Foundation vs. AARP: A Crucial Distinction
The AARP Foundation and AARP are distinct organizations with different legal statuses and funding sources. The Foundation is a charitable organization focused on direct services to vulnerable seniors, while AARP is a membership organization focused on broader advocacy and member benefits. Donations to the Foundation are tax-deductible, unlike most donations to AARP.
| Feature | AARP Foundation | AARP (Membership Organization) |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization | 501(c)(4) Membership Organization and Lobbying Group |
| Funding | Charitable donations, grants, corporate sponsorships | Membership dues, product royalties, donations |
| Purpose | Reduces senior poverty through direct charitable services, research, and legal advocacy. | Advocates for the 50+ population through lobbying, information campaigns, and membership benefits. |
| Focus | Serves vulnerable, low-income older adults, both members and non-members. | Serves its members with various benefits, information, and political advocacy. |
| Taxes | Donations are tax-deductible. | Donations are generally not tax-deductible. |
The Role of Volunteers
Volunteers are crucial to the Foundation's programs, such as Tax-Aide and Experience Corps, which provides reading tutors to students. Volunteers also help with community impact initiatives.
Impact and Funding
The Foundation serves millions of low-income older adults annually, securing billions in income, benefits, and tax refunds. It is funded by various sources, including grants, corporate partnerships, individual donations, and contributions from AARP.
The Long-Term Vision
The AARP Foundation aims for a future where no older person is vulnerable, working towards systemic change for greater economic opportunity, social connectedness, and dignity. You can learn more about their work and impact on their website AARP Foundation.
Conclusion
The AARP Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to combating senior poverty by providing direct services and advancing solutions for low-income older adults. It is distinct from AARP and relies on volunteers and diverse funding to support programs focused on taxes, employment, food security, and legal aid.
