The AARP Purpose Prize is an annual award honoring exceptional individuals aged 50 and older who leverage their life experience to address critical societal challenges through their nonprofits. Winners receive $75,000 to support their nonprofit organizations, along with a year of technical assistance to help expand their impact. Support services include leadership coaching, data consulting, succession planning, branding and social media guidance, and more. The program embodies AARP's mission of empowering people to create a better future.
Applications for the 2025 AARP Purpose Prize open on January 6, 2025, and close on February 28, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET. Eligible candidates must have founded or co-founded a nonprofit organization working to solve significant community or societal problems. Detailed eligibility criteria and official rules are available on AARP’s website at www.aarp.org/apply.
In addition to the five main winners, AARP recognizes an honorary recipient each year for their extraordinary contributions. In 2025, actress and philanthropist Taraji P. Henson received the honorary Purpose Prize Award for her work with the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF). Founded in 2018, BLHF aims to destigmatize mental health in marginalized communities and improve access to resources, inspired by Henson’s personal experiences with her father's mental health struggles.
The Purpose Prize celebrates innovation and the power of life experience to address society’s challenges. Past winners have tackled diverse issues such as education, healthcare, poverty, and social justice. The award amplifies the efforts of these leaders and inspires others to give back to their communities.
For more information about the award, eligibility requirements, or to apply, visit the AARP Purpose Prize website. This is a valuable opportunity for individuals over 50 who are driving meaningful change through their nonprofit work to gain recognition and resources to further their mission.
