Baier: Advocacy and Community Combine at Volunteer Summit

AARP Wyoming

The 2025 AARP Wyoming Volunteer Summit, held at UCross Ranch this year, brought together some of the most creative, dedicated, and fun volunteers across the AARP Wyoming network for days of celebration, service, and learning. This year’s theme — Advocacy and Community: Combine — wasn’t just a tagline. It was exactly what we did for two days straight: mixed ideas, experience, and strategy to shape what’s next for the AARP Wyoming outreach and advocacy plans.

We left UCross with more than ideas — we left with momentum. Our next steps involve turning these conversations into action: expanding caregiver programs, increasing our fraud prevention outreach, and exploring new ways to strengthen and connect Wyoming communities.

AARP Wyoming staff and members covered a range of topics, including caregiving and brain health, fraud prevention, and veterans’ outreach. However, the real spark came from volunteers connecting across communities. Breakout sessions turned into brainstorming labs, and by the end, we had a full slate of fresh ideas for 2026 and beyond. One favorite: Caregiver Pit Stops — short, energizing events where caregivers can recharge, connect, and get resources without committing to a full workshop series. Simple, smart, and doable — very Wyoming. (Look for them in May and November in Sheridan and Cheyenne this year.) They’ll be up at aarp.org/wyevents.

Volunteers shared what’s working in their towns, from Cheyenne’s Community Action Team (CAT) building virtual classes and Strike Out Fraud bowling to Sheridan’s crew leading caregiving programs and participating in community parades. Our Veterans Advisory Council established new collaborations with the VA and Wish of a Lifetime, and the Government Relations team guided us on statewide advocacy from crypto kiosks to property tax benefits. This team is ready for the 2026 legislative session.

And of course, there were the moments that remind you why we do this — seeing new volunteers step up, old friends reconnect, and everyone leaving a little more fired up than when they arrived.

If you’ve ever thought about getting involved with us, this is your sign. Join a Community Action Team in Sheridan or Cheyenne, serve on our Veterans Advisory Council, or bring your voice to the Government Relations Team. We have just four staff but over 150 volunteers! We’re building something meaningful across Wyoming.

To learn more, call or email me at jbaier@aarp.org 920-392-2250.