AARP Recognizes Chicagoan With Highest State Volunteer Honor

Award Recognizes Those That Live the Vision of AARP Founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus

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Oct 10, 2014, 01:00 ET

CHICAGO, Oct. 10, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Chicago resident Kathy Schubert was recognized by AARP Illinois with the state's highest volunteer honor, the 2014 Andrus Award for Community Service. The award was presented at a luncheon held in Schubert's honor at the American Red Cross in Chicago.

"AARP has long valued the spirit of service embraced by our founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus," said Bob Gallo, AARP Illinois State Director. "Kathy Schubert is a tireless volunteer that truly embodies that spirit and AARP is honored to present her with this award today."

Schubert has served as a Blood Drive Coordinator for the Red Cross since 2004 and is a long-time volunteer and supporter of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC. In addition to her roles with the American Red Cross and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, Schubert has also volunteered her time with Hostelling International, Imperial Nursing Home, the Active Transportation Alliance, PETA, St. Joseph Services, Catholic Charities and the Chicago Department of Transportation. An avid bike rider, Schubert led a campaign to replace crosswalk and traffic signals to make them more suitable for bikers and pedestrians in Chicago.

"I volunteer because I'm retired and I'm single and it's a good way to be sure I have somewhere to go where I'm appreciated," said Kathy Schubert. "There is so much to do in Chicago – so many people need help. So whether it's saving lives at the Red Cross, ushering theater attendees, or giving directions to travelers staying in the Loop, I'm just happy to be able to give back."

Schubert was nominated for the 2014 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service by four separate individuals: Lawrence Smith and Tammy Winchester, both Volunteer Managers at the American Red Cross; Jill Weinberg, Midwest Director for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum; and Julie Hochstader, a friend.

During today's luncheon, AARP also presented a monetary donation to the American Red Cross and the U.S Holocaust Memorial Museum on Schubert's behalf.

SOURCE AARP Illinois