Doris Alexander Selected 2009 Andrus Award Winner

Doris Alexander of Lucedale has been selected by AARP, the nonprofit membership organization for people 50 and over, to receive Mississippi’s 2009 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious and visible volunteer award for community service. This award symbolizes that individuals have the power and ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

AARP Mississippi selected Alexander for her remarkable service and for the impact she has had on the lives of others and on her community. 

Alexander has been a volunteer in her community for most of her life. Her mother taught her the philosophy that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

She serves as President of the George County AARP Chapter in Lucedale. She also was a founding member of the chapter. The Chapter won the 2008 top Relay for Life Award and the 2009 Veteran Award under her leadership.

Alexander also serves as President of the Concerned Citizens for Youth.  Under her leadership, an old school has been declared a “Historic Landmark.”  Renovation of the school is near completion.  It will house an after-school program for youth.

Alexander is a retired school teacher of 36 years.  She is a wife and a mother of one son.  She just completed four years as a case manager volunteer for Katrina victims. 

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service recognizes members and volunteers who, through volunteer service, are significantly enhancing the lives of individuals age 50 and over. The award was formally presented to Alexander at a ceremony on October 16 at the Hattiesburg Lake Terrace Convention Center.

“This award serves as a symbol to members and the public that we can all work together for positive social change,” says AARP Mississippi Senior State Director Sherri Davis-Garner.  “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions AARP volunteers make to their communities, neighbors, and the programs they serve.”

Recipients across the nation were chosen for their ability to enhance the lives of AARP members and prospective members, improve the community in or for which the work was performed, and inspire others to volunteer.