WISCONSIN – Howard Garves
Howard Graves has served as the Wisconsin State Coordinator of the AARP Tax-Aide Program, administered by the AARP Foundation, for the past five years. During his tenure, the program has grown; in 2008, Tax-Aide helped more than 50,000 Wisconsinites file their taxes. Howard supervises 600 trained Tax-Aide volunteers and keeps all aspects of the program running smoothly. He volunteers more than 1,200 hours annually with the Tax-Aide Program. During the 10-week tax season, he works about 15 hours per week in direct volunteer service; that is, he helps people to file their taxes. Through Howard's leadership, the percentage of returns electronically filed has increased to 94 percent, which is significant, because e-filing enables recipients to receive their returns quickly and efficiently. Howard has actively recruited more credit unions to participate in the Wisconsin Tax-Aide Program. In turn, credit unions have provided space for tax counseling and completed quick turnaround times on directly depositing tax refunds. Howard also takes part in other community service, including supporting his church’s finance and building committee, participating in town board committees, and volunteering with the West Central Wisconsin Committee on Aging.
WYOMING – Bess Arnold
For two decades, Bess Arnold’s grace and poise under pressure have made her an effective advocate and the go-to person for the AARP Wyoming State Office. As a reporter, author, and leader in the American Business Association and among the Wyoming Media Professionals, she offers skills that have landed her on several key boards and committees, including the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging and the Vision 2020 Team for Cheyenne. Since 1991, she has represented AARP members at the state capitol and on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. She has successfully lobbied for long-term care reform, adoption of a statewide advance-directive form, and a variety of other health policies—all the while still serving her local community and AARP Chapter. For the past 14 years, Bess has helped with the AARP National Spelling Bee. No matter the need, Bess is sure to respond with a smile.
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