Newsmakers 2014: Ilena Aslin, AARP volunteer

Ilena Aslin is a community advocate volunteer for AARP Missouri, which is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization.

"[AARP] helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families, such as health care, employment security and retirement planning," says Aslin. "I love being a part of making this happen."

The people of AARP are what motivate and inspire Aslin.

"I am inspired by the fact that I am part of an organization with a membership of more than 37 million [people, 750,000 of which are Missourians], all helping Americans 50-plus to live life to the fullest," she says. "AARP is offering me the opportunity to work with hundreds of individuals, partners and organizations as together we plan and implement programs that make a difference in the lives of so many people."

The community issue that Aslin is most passionate about is hunger.

"Hunger is one of the most serious issues facing Americans. Nearly 9 million [people age 50-plus] are at risk of daily hunger, [which is] a 79 percent increase in just [the last] 10 years," says Aslin. "Drive to End Hunger is a priority area for AARP. We need to take steps to feed those who are hungry now, while also developing long-term, sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger among those 50 and older."

In addition to her volunteer work with AARP, Aslin volunteers with SoutheastHEALTH, RSVP/VIC, Maple United Methodist Church, S.A.L.T., Red Cross blood drives, Community Caring Council/Aging Committee and the FISH food pantry.

--Lori Trepasso