BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian Senior Programs will join AmeriCorps Seniors projects across the country in celebrating the service and impact of older adults during the 2026 AmeriCorps Seniors Nationwide Celebration on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026. As part of the celebration, Appalachian Senior Programs will recognize Tammy Taylor, director of the Foster Grandparent Program, who will receive the AmeriCorps Seniors Life of Service Award for more than 20 years of service. Taylor has served for 30 years, including more than two decades with Appalachian State University following the program’s transition to the Department of Sociology.
“Tammy’s dedication to older adults, children, and families across our region has shaped the Foster Grandparent Program and strengthened our community in lasting ways,” said Dr. Amy Dellinger Page, director of Appalachian Senior Programs and professor in the Department of Sociology. “Her recognition during the nationwide celebration underscores the impact of AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers and the difference they make every day. Her service will leave an enduring legacy in our local rural community.”
Taylor serves through the Foster Grandparent Program and has contributed three decades of service supporting children, older adults, and local families. In 2002, she founded Project Star to meet the needs of low‑income senior citizens in Ashe County. Project Star collects gifts for isolated seniors during the holiday season and raises funds to assist with winter fuel costs. Since its inception, the program has supported more than 8,500 seniors. Taylor also partners with Blue Ridge Energy to coordinate the donation of 100 food boxes each holiday season. Honorees are selected by AmeriCorps Seniors for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to strengthening the community.
The nationwide celebration will highlight AmeriCorps volunteers and employees who support children, older adults, families, and local organizations through service. Across the country, AmeriCorps Seniors engages more than 130,000 older adults each year in meaningful roles that improve lives and build stronger, more connected communities.
Appalachian Senior Programs will host a local retirement celebration honoring Taylor’s 30 years of service on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. The event is invitation-only.
For more information about the local celebration or opportunities to get involved with Appalachian Senior Programs, contact Page at pagead@appstate.edu.
Related: Tammy Taylor recognized for 30 years of service to Appalachian Senior Programs
###
About AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 185,000 AmeriCorps Volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term or one-time volunteers. Learn more about AmeriCorps
About Appalachian Senior Programs
Appalachian Senior Programs (ASP), sponsored by Appalachian State University, assists children and the senior population of a five-county area in northwestern North Carolina through the grant-funded Foster Grandparent Program and Senior Companion Program. Consisting of volunteers, ages fifty-five and older, ASP enhances the social-emotional and academic skills of children who need one-on-one assistance and provides companionship and assistance for older adults who do not qualify for other assistance. Learn more about Appalachian Senior Programs
About the Department of Sociology
The Department of Sociology offers a Bachelor of Arts and seven Bachelor of Science concentrations (applied research methods; criminology; families and intimate relationships; health and aging; power and social change; social inequalities; and individually designed, which requires departmental approval). The department also offers minors in sociology and health and aging. Learn more about the Department of Sociology
Professional headshot of a smiling woman with short brown hair, hoop earrings, and a black top against a neutral gray background.
Tammy Taylor, director of the Foster Grandparent Program, will receive the 2026 AmeriCorps Seniors Life of Service Award. Photo submitted