Pittsburgh North Hills AARP Chapter 595 is celebrating being 55 years young, as 2026 marks another year of lunches, trips and good deeds.
The chapter, approved in 1969, held its installation of officers and board members during a luncheon and meeting on June 2.
Its members recently shared what makes their group special.
“No matter how old our members are, we do enjoy a good laugh and that’s what keeps us young,” said chapter President Janet Rushmore.
“I like people,” Rushmore said. “It’s important that we don’t become isolated, lonely or depressed. Chapter 595 welcomes seniors to socialize, which is so important after retirement.”
The group supports community events and donates to local charities as a way to give back.
In 2025, members donated 407 work gloves to volunteers at Hosanna Industries Inc., a local nonprofit that helps build and repair houses for people less fortunate. They are hosting a glove drive again this year, Rushmore said.
The next project is a food drive benefiting North Hills Community Outreach based in Hampton. Donations are collected from members each month to benefit local charities, Meals on Wheels and the Lighthouse Foundation, Rushmore said.
“Volunteering within the chapter provides purpose, challenges and opportunities to work with people, share ideas and enjoy new friends. It’s a pleasant way to spend an afternoon with entertainment, snacks, a full-course lunch or a group bus trip,” said Rushmore, who joined in 2017 with her husband, Bill.
The chapter, which has 310 members, costs $10 per year to join. Members of North Hills-based AARP Chapter 595 meet monthly, host lunches five times a year and provide entertaining or enlightening programs at each event, Rushmore said.
Members usually gather at 12:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month.
They also let the good times roll. Earlier this year, the group featured entertainment by its members who created sound effects and read an original script from a classic “Lone Ranger” radio program.
“A highlight of our chapter are the popular trips and tours planned by Herm (Boehmig) and Elaine (Benec), experienced travelers and long-time members of 595,” said Rushmore of Hampton.
Others share her enthusiasm.
Sharon Smarto of Hampton has been a member for at least four years after meeting a member at a Christmas bazaar. She enjoys supporting the different charities, the entertainment, luncheons and trips offered throughout the year.
“I’ve met very nice and generous people. I’m glad to have found a group that has been very welcoming and friendly,” Smarto said.
Members Herm Boehmig and Elaine Benec, of Butler, agree.
“Our North Hills AARP Chapter 595 is unique. The monthly meetings with cookies and entertainment provide an opportunity for senior citizens, who usually deal with the same issues of daily living, to remain active,” Boehmig said.
“The chapter continues to grow due to the dynamic previous and current leadership. Our president encourages members to participate in the various committees which can be personally rewarding. Not only do our members enjoy fun and friendship, they contribute to service projects, giving back to the community,” Benec said.
Carol Schreiber of Shaler was presented with the AARP Community Service Award during the May meeting. She helps coordinate the luncheons, among other things.
“The things I like about Chapter 595 are the friendliness of the members, the numerous trips that are offered and taking care of the five luncheons we have each year,” Schreiber said.
Looking ahead, members are planning a Summer Celebration on Aug. 4 to recognize the 250th anniversary of America as well as the chapter’s 55th anniversary, Rushmore said.
To learn more about joining AARP Chapter 595, contact membership chair Bill Rushmore at 412-486-7465.