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PORTLAND — Bridgton resident Edwin Wright is the winner of the 2018 Andrus Award from Maine AARP, named in honor of AARP’s founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus.
The Andrus Award celebrates and honors individuals who make a difference in the lives of others, and it is the most prestigious and visible award AARP can present to an individual.
“Mr. Wright’s extraordinary public service actively embodies Dr. Andrus’ motto ‘To Serve, Not To be Served,'” said a news release from AARP.
Wright works with the Stevens Brook Elementary School backpack food program, which provides needed food to school children who otherwise would not have adequate access to food during school breaks and weekends.
According to Elizabeth Shane, academic leader of the school, “Mr. Wright is the epitome of community service at the local level. He tries to pack food that children can prepare themselves in case an adult is not present to help. He is determined to feed those in need and does not stop even if it comes at a cost to himself. He is selfless.”
Of particular note is how Wright’s volunteerism has inspired others to participate, the release said. A local grocery store, for example, upon hearing about the program, offered to provide nonperishable food items at cost. A local doctor’s office and the school’s PTA both contribute to the fund that supports the backpack program.
Shane said, “What a role model he is for his grandson, who attends our school.”
AARP Maine staff, volunteers and local members celebrated Wright during the annual volunteer recognition celebration, held at Maple Inn Farm in Hallowell.
Rich Livingston, current AARP Maine volunteer state president, said, “The AARP Maine Andrus Award acts as a symbol to our members and to the public that we can all work together for positive social change. We are deeply proud to be presenting this year’s award to Ed Wright whose record of achievement, service and commitment provides an excellent example of one person making a significant difference in the lives of others.”
AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions AARP volunteers make to their communities, neighbors and the programs they serve, the organizatoin said. Those who would like to volunteer may call 1-866-554-5380.
