2019 Andrus Award for Outstanding Community Service

AARP Idaho is pleased to announce that Mozelle and Don Neville of Idaho Falls were selected to receive the 2019 Andrus Award for Community Service, the Association’s most prestigious volunteer award. Each year AARP honors the legacy of AARP founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, with the AARP Andrus Award for Community Service. The award is a symbol of the power of individuals to make a difference in the lives of others. AARP Idaho state director Lupe Wissel will present the honor to the Neville’s at an upcoming ceremony in Idaho Falls.

“Mozelle and Don Neville recognize the important role volunteers play in making society better. It is a pleasure to present this honor to people who have given of themselves to make an important difference in the lives of others. Their spirit of service has left an indelible mark in and around Idaho Falls,” said Barbara Blasch, a member of the AARP Idaho executive council and Andrus award selection committee.

In 2010, the Neville’s began the Idaho Falls Area Humanitarian Center (IFAHC), a non-profit, community based volunteer organization, working to provide a variety of items for those in need across southeastern Idaho. For the past nine years, they have served as IFAHC executive directors. During that time, the center has grown from 25 volunteers distributing 25 products to hundreds of volunteers providing more than 70 products.

In 2018, more than ten thousand volunteer signups were recorded with individuals giving 32,000 hours of their time. Many volunteers also work outside the facility producing the items for distribution including quilts, clothing, toys, games, blankets, hygiene kits and school supplies.

In addition, the Neville’s also organized a community room where donations of clothing, home goods and personal items are accepted and provided to those in need. These facilities continue to grow and are helping thousands of Idahoans each year.

Amy Pancheri, who nominated the Neville’s for the Andrus Award, said, “Mozelle and Don’s leadership of the center exemplifies AARP’s vision ‘to serve, and not be served’. They have been true examples of serving their community, loving their neighbors and inspiring others to help.”