AARP Purpose Prize Award

The AARP Purpose Prize award is a prestigious national recognition program designed to honor individuals aged 50 and older who are leveraging their life experiences to create meaningful social change. Founded by AARP, a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people as they age, the Purpose Prize specifically celebrates those who have founded nonprofit organizations that address pressing societal issues with innovative solutions. The award is unique in its focus on later-life innovation, underscoring AARP’s belief that life experience can serve as a powerful force for societal good. Eligible applicants must be at least 50 years old by February 28, 2025, and must have founded their 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofit organizations at the age of 40 or later. The organization must be U.S.-based and have its principal place of business in the United States or the District of Columbia. While applications are accepted from individuals whose work benefits populations outside the U.S., applicants themselves must be legal U.S. residents. Importantly, the founder must still hold an active role in the organization, whether paid or volunteer. Each award recipient receives $75,000 in unrestricted funds for their organization, along with a full year of support services to scale their impact. These supports may include leadership coaching, succession planning, branding assistance, data and evaluation consulting, and development of fundraising materials. The award is not intended as a lifetime achievement recognition; rather, it honors individuals who continue to be actively involved in innovative, purpose-driven work that addresses social challenges across diverse sectors, from public health and education to housing, veterans’ services, and environmental justice. The application process is structured and competitive, involving multiple rounds of evaluation. Applicants must submit a detailed narrative that outlines the social issue they address, their organization’s strategies and scope, population served, data and impact metrics, organizational sustainability, and their personal journey and inspiration. Applications are reviewed by a jury of distinguished national leaders, and final selection is subject to approval by an AARP executive. Co-founders may apply jointly, but only two individuals are permitted per application, and both must meet eligibility criteria. The next call for applications will be announced in 2026. Interested individuals are encouraged to monitor www.aarp.org/apply for updates. Recipients of the AARP Purpose Prize must also participate in public engagement activities such as interviews, photoshoots, and annual convenings to help amplify their work and the values of the award. Questions may be directed to purposeprize@aarp.org. The AARP Purpose Prize helps elevate the stories of older adults whose leadership continues to impact communities positively. Through financial awards and strategic support, the program not only celebrates their achievements but also equips them to expand their reach and deepen their influence.

Highlight clear metrics, a compelling beneficiary story, and strong sustainability. Emphasize how being 50+ shapes your leadership.