AARP Alaska honors locals for Older Americans Month and Senior Recognition Day

Former state Rep. Beth Kerttula recognizes Bruce Botelho as he accepts the 2025 AARP Alaska Andrus Award for Community Service at the Douglas Public Library on May 20, 2026. (Photo by Jeff Gnass)

(AARP Alaska press release)

On May 20 AARP Alaska celebrated Older Americans Month and Senior Recognition Day with an afternoon gathering at the Douglas Library. Linda Kruger, local AARP volunteer lead, provided information about AARP and AARP’s 55 years in Juneau. Juneau Commission on Aging Chair Deborah Craig read an Older Americans Month proclamation signed by Mayor Weldon. 

The AARP Alaska Andrus Award for Community Service, AARP’s most prestigious volunteer honor, was presented to Bruce Botelho for his dedication to volunteer service, community impact, inspiring others to take action and sharing his experience, talent, and skills to make a difference in the lives of those who live in Juneau and beyond. Each year AARP Alaska presents the Andrus Award to someone who shares the spirit of service championed by AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. Representative Beth Kerttulla presented the award. In accepting the award Bruce shared a saying that is important to him “Three things are necessary for the happiness of life: something meaningful to do, someone to wait for, and something to hope for.” He added that “making a difference is an important driver for life.”

Longtime AARP Juneau volunteers Sue Nielsen (18 years) and Barb Potter (16 years) were recognized for their many years of service to AARP in Juneau. Bartlett Regional Hospital Family and Patient Administration Operations Manager Jane Johnson was honored for her many years of service by helping seniors and others navigate the complexities of health care finance.

(Disclosure: Bruce Botelho is the chair of the Juneau Independent’s board of directors. This press release was submitted independently by AARP Alaska.)