Volunteer Spotlight: Courtney Whorton

When Courtney Whorton retired from her business in 2004, she knew that there was still much to be done in her Virginia Beach community.

Originally from Brunswick, Georgia, Whorton owned and operated a travel agency and school for over three decades in Virginia Beach.

“When I retired it was a shock. So I decided to get busy,” Whorton said.

In the early years of her retirement, she found much to keep her occupied such as gardening and making crafts- she even participated in local craft shows to sell her jewelry.

She became a member of her local AARP chapter where a volunteer came in one day and talked about all the work AARP Virginia was doing around the state. Whorton and her friend instantly became interested in getting involved.

Whorton began learning how to facilitate various workshops for aging adults such as speaking engagements on Brain Health and Fraud.

“I had a friend that had gotten scammed, so I wanted to see what I could do about that,” Whorton said.

Whorton enjoys the comradery of the people she volunteers with, and is also involved with coordinating the lunch groups and most recently, the Movies For Grownups events.

“Whatever’s going on; I like to help with it,” Whorton said.

When she is not busy volunteering, Whorton enjoys gardening, and still stays active creating her jewelry and crafts. She also helps her friends who are not as mobile as she.

“I try to be in service to some of my older friends,” Whorton said.

She also spoke about trying to encourage participation from AARP members who are ages 65 and under.

“We need to pass the torch on down to the people coming up behind us,” Whorton said.