AARP Wyoming is seeking nominations for the 2019 Andrus Award, the state’s premiere community service award for those age 50 and over.

Named after AARP founder Ethel Percy Andrus, it recognizes individuals who are sharing their experience, talent and skills to enrich their communities in ways that are consistent with AARP’s mission, vision, and commitment to volunteer service.

Nominations for the award are due by July 15 and can be submitted at www.aarp.org/forms/aarp-andrus-award-for-community-service/.

Only one volunteer per state (or couple performing service together) can receive the award each year and the recipient must live in the awarding state. The winner must be at least 50 years old, and the achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must reflect AARP’s vision and mission.

The 2018 Andrus Award Winner was Kay Bjorklund of Thermopolis. Kay, age 95, remains a Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, welcoming new businesses to Thermopolis, as well as program director for her Kiwanis Club, lining up speakers for the club’s twice-monthly meetings.

One week a month you can find Kay delivering Meals on Wheels to Thermopolis residents. Each weekend she is acting activities director for The Pioneer Home, where she lines up Wii Bowling tournaments and shuffleboard. Kay would also mention she carries a 231 average on Wii bowling.

Kay has long been known for her candy-selling prowess, as she sold $2,500 in See’s Candy last year for her Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) chapter, more than double the next highest seller. If that isn’t enough, she also volunteers one day a week in the gift shop of the hospital in Thermopolis, and works with the doorstep ministry of her church.

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso and his wife, Bobbi, presented Bjorklund the award last year. Bobbi Barrasso, a former Thermopolis resident, reported Bjorklund delivers Meals on Wheels to her parents. Sen. Barrasso honored Bjorklund with an entry he submitted into the Congressional Record.