Eligibility for the AARP Purpose Prize Award
The AARP Purpose Prize is for individuals aged 50 and older who founded organizations addressing social problems. Key eligibility points include age 50 or older, founding a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofit at age 40 or older, active involvement, and U.S. residency. The organization's main business location must be in the U.S. and not exclusively religious. AARP membership isn't mandatory. For comprehensive details, review the official {Link: AARP Purpose Prize rules https://www.purposeprize.org/a/page/Rules}.
Eligibility for the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service
This state-level award honors outstanding volunteers aged 50 and older for their community service. Nominees must be 50+ and have performed unpaid work aligning with AARP's mission. Paid service, political activity, and current elected officials are ineligible. AARP staff, their immediate families, and selection committee volunteers are also ineligible. Membership is not required.
Eligibility for the AARP Community Challenge Grants
AARP Community Challenge grants support quick-action projects by organizations to make communities more livable for all ages. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofits, plus state/local government entities. Projects should serve people 50+ and address areas like public spaces, transportation, and housing. For full rules, see {Link: AARP Community Challenge Website https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html}.
Comparison of Major AARP Awards Eligibility
| Feature | AARP Purpose Prize | AARP Andrus Award | AARP Community Challenge Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applicant/Nominee | Individual founder/cofounder | Volunteer (individual or couple) | Nonprofit organization or government entity |
| Age Requirement | 50+ (and founded org at 40+) | 50+ | None (focuses on benefiting 50+) |
| AARP Membership | Not required | Not required | Not applicable |
| Type of Contribution | Creating and leading a social impact nonprofit | Outstanding, unpaid community volunteerism | Community-improvement projects with measurable impact |
| Scope | National | State-level | Local |
| Award | Financial prize ($75k) and support | Public recognition | Project funding (up to $25k) |
General Eligibility Considerations
Eligibility rules vary by award program, but AARP membership is generally not required and doesn't impact selection. AARP staff, certain volunteers, and their families are typically ineligible. Always check the specific award rules for complete and verified eligibility details.
How to Find Your Fit
Review the specific criteria for each AARP award to determine which you or your organization might qualify for. Whether you are a nonprofit leader, dedicated volunteer, or part of an organization improving communities, aligning your work with the requirements is key. For more information on applying, including current opportunities and deadlines, visit AARP's official awards page. Understanding eligibility criteria helps in pursuing recognition for contributions to healthy aging and senior care.
Conclusion
AARP recognizes contributions through various awards, each with specific eligibility. The Purpose Prize is for founders aged 50+ of nonprofits started later in life. The Andrus Award honors unpaid volunteers 50 or older. Community Challenge grants support nonprofit and government projects benefiting the 50+ community. Reviewing specific rules is vital to confirm eligibility. These programs support AARP's mission.
