The Black Forest AARP chapter was recognized for the third consecutive year as the best AARP chapter in Colorado at the Annual Volunteer Recognition Program in October in Arvada, Colo.†The award consisted of a cash award of $250 and a large gold traveling cup engraved with the chapter name. The chapter also received an additional $150 for its exceptional involvement this past year in local charitable activities.For the past 39 years, the chapter has focused on service to the local community. This past year, they sponsored classes on driver safety, stroke and heart attack awareness and Social Security and Medicare.†Chapter members are active members of the Colorado Springs Senior Resource Council and assist with the area Tax-Aide program for seniors as well.The chapter routinely distributes ElderWatch fraud and scam alerts and has co-sponsored a free document-shredding event the past three years.Other projects this year included making useful items for TESSA (domestic violence program), sponsoring social events for seniors; providing 35 stockings for the Salvation Army during the holidays; contributing to Christmas boxes for Native Americans. Food drives brought in $960 in cash, and the chapter contributed $200 of its own funds to the Drive to End Hunger in Colorado.The Colorado Springs area Black Forest AARP chapter meets at noon in the Black Forest Lutheran Church Fellowship hall the second Wednesday of each month.†Dues are $10 per year.†Contact Chuck at 749-9227 for more information.
