A Distinguished Panel of Leaders
The jury for the AARP Purpose Prize is composed of a diverse group of national leaders, experts, and thinkers. These individuals are selected for their extensive experience and sound judgment across a range of sectors, including nonprofits, academia, innovation, and entertainment. The makeup of the panel is dynamic, with members often changing each year to bring fresh perspectives to the selection process.
While the specific individuals on the jury may vary, the consistent theme is a dedication to recognizing social innovation in the second half of life. For example, past and recent juries have included prominent figures such as authors, philanthropists, and executives from influential organizations. The diversity of the jury ensures that all applications are reviewed through a broad lens, considering the impact of a founder's work from multiple angles.
The Role of AARP Staff
In addition to external leaders, the jury often includes AARP staff members. This collaboration between internal and external reviewers ensures that the selection process is grounded in AARP's mission while also benefiting from outside expertise. This tiered approach is a key part of the robust selection process.
The Multi-Round Selection Process
Determining the recipients of the AARP Purpose Prize is a comprehensive, multi-stage process designed to identify truly impactful and inspiring social innovators. The journey from applicant to winner involves several key rounds:
- Round 1: Applicant Review. All eligible applications are reviewed by a group of external reviewers. This initial screening narrows the field to a smaller group of promising candidates.
- Round 2: Candidate Selection. The pool is further refined, with AARP staff reviewers and external experts selecting semi-finalists.
- Round 3: Finalist Review. The process continues with a selection of finalists, who then proceed to the final round of consideration.
- Round 4: Finalist Interviews and Jury Selection. The finalist round involves interviews with the prestigious jury of external reviewers and AARP staff. The jury then selects up to five winners, which is subject to final approval by an AARP executive.
Detailed Judging Criteria
Throughout the review process, applicants are evaluated based on a set of weighted criteria to ensure a fair and thorough assessment. These criteria highlight the core mission of the Purpose Prize, focusing on the impact and personal journey of the founder.
| Evaluation Criteria | Scoring Emphasis | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Problem & Solution | Strong | Does the application clearly define a compelling social problem and offer a well-structured, proven strategy to solve it? |
| Impact Measurement | Highest | How does the organization track and measure its benefits? Clear metrics and tangible results are crucial. |
| Personal Story & Motivation | Strong | The founder's inspiration and the clear connection between their lived experience and their work are evaluated. |
| Experience After 50 | Key | How has being 50 or older uniquely impacted their approach to and success in their work? |
| Organizational Sustainability | High | The long-term viability of the organization is assessed, including its funding, resources, and strategic vision. |
| Populations Served | Important | Is there a clear definition of the clients served and the geographic reach of the organization? |
Final Approval and Commitment to Diversity
While the jury plays a vital role in recommending the winners, the final decision ultimately rests with an AARP executive. This step serves as a final quality check, ensuring that the selected honorees align perfectly with the organization's mission of empowering people to choose how they live as they age.
Furthermore, AARP has a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity in its review process. The staff and jury are tasked with uplifting voices and recognizing the lived experiences of all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability status. This commitment underscores the prize's purpose to recognize innovation from all corners of America.
A Legacy of Honoring Purpose
Initially launched by Encore.org, AARP took over the Purpose Prize in 2016, continuing its legacy of recognizing the incredible contributions of older adults. The award serves as a powerful reminder that life experience can be a catalyst for creating a better future for everyone. Understanding who is the jury for the AARP Purpose Prize provides valuable insight into the thoughtfulness and rigor behind this celebrated award.
For more information on the award and the people who make it happen, visit the official AARP Purpose Prize page Learn more about the AARP Purpose Prize here.
In summary, the selection of Purpose Prize winners is not a casual decision but a careful and thoughtful process conducted by a panel of distinguished experts. This jury, with the final approval of an AARP executive, ensures that the most deserving individuals are recognized for their impactful work, leveraging their lifetime of knowledge for good.
