AARP Foundation

I have been a member of AARP for almost a year. I am thinking of not renewing because of the endless junk mail that I receive. I am constantly receiving mail about AARP various insurance policies. These include life, long term care, auto, homeowners, health and I don't know what else. It is extremely annoying. I don't feel comfortable just throwing them in my recycle bin, because of the personal info - name address, aarp membership info, etc. So, I end up opening them all, and then shredding certain pages. Whenever I see a big envelope come in the mail, I think "Oh no, it's AARP again." What a waste of paper and time.

AARP Foundation has provided major assistance in hunger relief for seniors. Their innovative and collaborative approach is why they are able to make such a difference in every community they work in. In addition I have seen first hand the services they have available to assist older workers.

These guys serve a very broad population that really needs a break, and they get the job done.

They're also expanding in areas that need help, like people who can't get out of the house easily, and who lack local friends and family.

I've recently participated in a brainstorming session with them, on the use of tech to help people who're isolated. It was impressive and serious, and will get more done.

Having read the Financial Form 990, and the Consolidated Annual Report for 2010 - 2009, you would be hard-pressed to locate any information regarding the enormous revenue generated for this 501(c)4 quasi-charitable organization by their massive sales of MedSups and LTC Insurance.

Is it any wonder AARP was hauled before Congress this year to explain such blatant conflict of interest? They dominate both fields, yet browsing through both SEC filings, you'd never come to that conclusion. The info may be disclosed, but it's so opaque, I never found it-- and I'm used to reading these forms!

Caveat emptor, buyer beware. AARP speaks out of both sides of their mouth. One division ecourages universal health care; while the other profiteers from a private market they've practically cornered.