Retirement doesn’t mean retreating from the world. It’s your chance to explore new interests, make meaningful connections, and give back to your community. AARP offers countless ways to stay engaged through local chapters and events that bring people together for friendship, learning, and purpose.

Find Your Local AARP Chapter

There are more than 800 AARP chapters across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, each with its own personality and focus. These independently run groups meet monthly throughout most of the year and offer a wonderful way to connect with neighbors who share your interests.

You can easily find a chapter near you using the AARP Chapter Locator. Simply enter your zip code, and you’ll discover what’s happening in your area. Don’t worry if you’re not tech-savvy – you can also call the Volunteer Helpline at 1-866-740-7719 for help finding local opportunities.

Chapter activities vary widely but often include group meals, cultural outings, day trips, and community service projects. During a recent food drive, AARP chapters and Virginia Retired Teachers Association units across Virginia collected more than 15,000 pounds of food for families struggling with hunger in the state. Many chapters make community service a major priority, giving you meaningful ways to make a difference.

Virtual Community Center Events

Can’t make it to in-person gatherings? No problem! AARP’s Virtual Community Center offers FREE interactive online events and classes designed for learning, self improvement, and fun. You don’t need an AARP membership to participate.

Exercise & Wellness Classes

Start your day with gentle movement through online tai chi sessions, Zumba Gold classes designed for older adults, or seated exercise programs. Experience the benefits of tai chi, a graceful exercise that enhances well-being through slow, mindful movements and deep breathing.

Movies, Music & Entertainment

Join Friday Jam Sessions that explore connections between music and brain health, enjoy virtual movie screenings, or participate in craft demonstrations. Recent offerings included tote bag decorating workshops and healing through art sessions.

Educational Workshops

Learn about Social Security benefits, disaster preparedness, genealogy research, and fraud prevention. These sessions provide practical knowledge you can use immediately.

Local In-Person Events

Each AARP local office hosts events tailored to their community’s needs. For example, AARP Los Angeles offers free group walks at Crenshaw Family YMCA on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday every month from 8:00-9:00 a.m. through their Soul Steppers program.

You’ll find workshops on topics like power of attorney, living alone safely, and job searching skills. Many events happen at familiar community locations like libraries, community centers, and local restaurants.

Check AARP Local to discover what’s happening in your area. Events are typically free and designed to be welcoming for newcomers.

Volunteer Opportunities That Connect

AARP’s community includes over 50,000 volunteers who donate their time and talent to improve the lives of older Americans and their families. Volunteering is one of the best ways to stay connected while making a meaningful impact.

Popular volunteer programs include:

• Tax-Aide: Since 1968, Tax-Aide volunteers have served their communities and helped over 80 million people complete and file their tax returns nationwide

• Experience Corps: Help children in grades K-3 become better readers

• Driver Safety: Teach courses to help 50-plus drivers stay safe and independent

• Fraud Prevention: Educate others about avoiding scams

The Create the Good platform connects you with over 7,000 volunteer opportunities, both with AARP and other organizations in your community.

Getting Started

You don’t need to be an AARP member to attend most events, though membership (currently $15 for your first year) provides additional benefits and discounts. Start small by attending one virtual event or visiting a local chapter meeting.

Most chapters and events welcome newcomers warmly. You’ll often find people eager to share information about upcoming activities and help you get involved at whatever level feels comfortable.