AARP Florida Celebrates Volunteer Kathy Dalton Mayorga
In honor of April being National Volunteer Month, AARP Florida shines a spotlight on one of our most dedicated, Kathy Dalton Mayorga. Positioning herself as a major voice in Tallahassee for advocacy, fraud education and community outreach for the 50+ community, Kathy is a force to be reckoned with. She has quickly become an invaluable member of our volunteer team and has proven her devotion time and time again. Whether it be by taking names or giving calls, Kathy says you just need to get it done.
Kathy’s career began in New York in Public Administration working initially in Child Protective Services and corrections, and later transitioning to planning a wide range of social services. In her positions, Kathy organized and planned service delivery across health, mental health, alcohol and drug, and housing for individuals from underserved communities. As she worked during the AIDS Crisis of the 80s, Kathy developed a specialized knowledge of the lives and challenges of those afflicted and how best to deliver public benefits to ease their burdens. These roles also gave her a first glimpse into the essential support and advocacy necessary for older adults to maintain their dignity as they age.
After years of frustration with a harsh system, Kathy felt she needed to understand more about how political concerns impact legislation designed to benefit individuals, and how she could use the political process for positive change. This realization led her to not only seek a doctorate in political science, but begin her own certified women-owned business in New York where she assisted companies with her expert knowledge of service delivery systems and policy cycles.
Following her career filled with service to others, Kathy made the move to Tallahassee to be closer to family, including her young grandchildren. Unfortunately, soon following this move, COVID-19 began and made meeting new people and forming friendships within a new city nearly impossible.
Undeterred by these challenges, Kathy’s volunteer journey at the AARP began with a wish to use her advocacy skills to find like-minds and continue giving back as she’s done her entire life. Her advocacy work with AARP includes testifying in committee meetings, meeting with key elected officials and educating them on how current legislation would impact older adults.
Although she feels that it is her personal responsibility and civic duty to volunteer, she notes that AARP has been a positive experience. For the first time in her career, her volunteerism is on her terms as there is no office or individual dependent on her. She’s able to represent the values she holds dear and support AARP as we support her. When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, Kathy says she believes we all must re-invest into society as it has invested in us.
On behalf of AARP, thank you, Kathy, for all that you do. To all our volunteers- our mission is only made possible through your strong wills, commitment and trust. Please know you are heavily appreciated for all the time and effort you have given to us and to all those we represent and fight for.
If you are interested in volunteering, visit our Florida Volunteer Webpage. AARP Florida offers a wide range of opportunities for volunteers, from advocates to community educators.
