AARP, formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons, has honored a Salt Lake County man with its Community Spirit Award for "extraordinary volunteer service at the local level."

Don Holladay, 74, who lives in the Holladay area, was recognized for volunteer work in the areas of advocacy, education and/or service.He is particularly active in planning and promoting activities with AARP that help older people continue to live independently in their own homes as they grow older. Through volunteer work with Life Care Services, a Community Services Council program, he makes weekly visits to the homes of older citizens and those with disabilities. Among other things, he delivers boxes of food and provides transportation services to people for medical appointments. Holladay also uses his plumbing skills to help people in need.

As AARP's community coordinator for the Salt Lake area, he has organized and arranged training sessions to help older and disabled citizens with home modification and other problems, AARP officials said.

"One of Don's greatest skills is his willingness to serve wherever help is required. He's as much at home in the office as in the trenches. When speaking to community groups, Don always stresses the importance of activities and programs that help people to remain independent," said Margie Edwards, AARP state president.

Holladay, whose great-great-grandfather, John D. Holladay, settled the Holladay area, is a licensed clinical social worker. He retired in 1988 from Valley Mental Health where he was manager of the North Valley Unit. Many years ago, he was administrator of the Utah state marriage counseling program and the Salt Lake Family Court.

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Holladay will be a candidate for a further national award to be presented at the AARP's national convention May 16-18 in Orlando, Fla.

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