Roanoke’s Shannon Abell wins 2024 AARP Gordon Morton award

Odyssey Fields
·1 min read

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — Known for his dedication to the community and passion for empowering others, Roanoke’s very own Shannon Abell has received recognition for his unwavering willingness to support those across Southwest Virginia.

Abell took home the 2024 AARP Virginia Gordon Morton Award for Community Service.

AARP says he is an invaluable asset, and his commitment to disseminating vital information on several topics including fraud prevention and Medicare shows just the tip of the iceberg.

Abell takes on several leadership roles, such as serving as a projector lead for Grandparent’s Day at the Virginia Museum of Transportation and assisting with Movies For Grownups.

VDOE names Blacksburg HS teacher Region 6 Teacher of the Year

AARP says his efforts not only raise awareness but also facilitate opportunities for other volunteer presenters to contribute.

Abell previously worked at the Local Office on Aging (LOAA). The Virginia Attorney General also recognized him for his work in combating fraud and supporting older adults across Southwest Virginia.

The Gordon Morton Award for Community Service is named after Gordon Morton, who was the first president of the Kempsville Chapter.

Morton, also known as “Mr. AARP,” dedicated several years to AARP and in 1998, was awarded the Virginia AARP Community Spirit Award and multiple other chapter awards. Before he died in 2002, he was presented the Jefferson Cup Award by the Mayor’s Commission On Aging for “Exceptional Accomplishments in Service to Senior Citizens.”

Hidden Valley High School teacher wins 2024 Golden Apple Teacher of the Year award

“This was not an award that I was expecting and it is a real honor to receive it. I am just so happy that Kit and I have the support, training, and resources from AARP and Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol to continue speaking to seniors on scams and Medicare just like I did for 37 years at the Local Office on Aging,” shared Abell.

(Photo Courtesy: AARP)
(Photo Courtesy: AARP)

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.