Altamese R. Johnson first met the late Elvira B. Shaw in the early 1990s, when the two attended an AARP meeting with Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott of Newport News.

The two became fast friends, advocating for issues important to AARP, whose stated mission is “leading positive social change and delivering value to people age 50 and over through information, advocacy and service,” according to the organization.

Ms. Johnson, a retired Richmond Public Schools teacher, was presented with the Elvira B. Shaw Advocacy Award for her dedication to AARP’s legislative priorities, effectiveness in advocacy and exceeding the call of duty in her willingness to serve.

The award was created in 2013 in Mrs. Shaw’s memory for her outstanding service as an AARP Virginia advocate for more than 40 years.

Ms. Johnson has been on the AARP Virginia advocacy team since her retirement 21 years ago. The organization presented Ms. Johnson with the award Nov. 12 at its All-Volunteer Assembly Recognition Awards Banquet in Staunton.

Ms. Johnson says the honor “means that I have been recognized by an organization with thousands of members who are dedicated to serving others through advocacy on the local, state and federal level and that I have taught my children and grandchildren by example.”

AARP Virginia State Advocacy Director David DeBiasi praises Ms. Johnson’s work with the group.

“She thrived as a team member back in the days when it was more difficult for an African- American woman to have a voice amidst an AARP volunteer group of predominantly white men,” he says. “True to her character, Altamese knew the power of many voices and wanted to provide a meaningful contribution to the group.”

He calls her “a quintessential team player. She always puts AARP’s legislative priorities first.”

He adds that “her work, leadership and style very much capture the spirit of Elvira B. Shaw.”

Mr. DeBiasi notes that Ms. Johnson was “on board during the days of the VOTE program when she went door-to-door registering voters in poor neighborhoods and learned more about the plight of the disenfranchised.”

He adds that in 2012, when AARP’s primary legislative priority was protecting voting rights, Ms. Johnson agreed to be interviewed to express her passion for the issue.

Her video, posted on social media, recalls a childhood incident that shaped her outlook on life and service to others. She spoke of a day before a presidential election when a pickup truck full of white men drove down her street shooting a rifle and shouting, “There will be no voting by any of you tomorrow!”

She recounts how the right to vote was hard won and should not be taken away by threats of the Jim Crow era or with voting rights restrictions today.

Ms. Johnson’s “dedication to AARP is second to none at both the state and federal levels,” AARP further states. “Because she lives in Richmond, she is often called upon for extra duty at the State Capitol and she is always ready to be there, even with short notice.”

In her advocacy role, she often testifies before legislative committees and represents the group before the media. Meet this AARP advocate and this week’s Personality, Altamese R. Johnson:

Date and place of birth: Nov. 29 in Cairo, Ga.

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Albany State University.

Family: Two daughters, a granddaughter and a great-granddaughter.

Reaction to news that I was award winner: Surprise, appreciation.

Why I volunteer: Because of my desire to participate in community affairs and organizations which enable people to live a healthier, happier and more productive life.

First volunteer position: Many years ago, I served as president of the Women’s Political Network, an organization in Richmond that worked to increase voter participation and influence the political process on the local and state level.

What motivated me to get involved in community service: I was motivated by my mother, who was a schoolteacher, and by two uncles who were high school principals.

AARP Virginia is important because: Of the many volunteers who dedicate so much time helping others and the information available to all through the organization.

Top issues facing 50-plus population: Health care and jobs.

When I knew teaching was for me: When many parents made requests that their children were placed in my mother’s classroom because of her ability to motivate and stimulate to the extent that progress was sure to be made.

Students entering the education field today are: Fortunate because there are many resources available in order to become qualified, such as grants, loans, etc.

Their greatest challenge: Finding a job they want with the salary to support their lifestyle.

Advice for aspiring teachers: Be patient, resourceful, open to new ideas and above all, be prepared.

I’m driven by: Knowing that so many people worked and are still striving to fulfill the vision of AARP, which is “a society in which all people live with dignity and purpose and fulfill their goals and dreams.”

How I start my day: Meditation.

Best late-night snack: Popcorn.

My friends like me because: I am sincere and dependable.

Nobody knows: I like Shakespeare and visited Stratford-on-Avon, his birthplace, when I was in London.

The one thing I can’t stand: People who think they are entitled and disrespect others.

Person who influenced me the most: My mother.

Book that influenced me the most: “Wings of Silver” by Jo Petty.

Book I am reading now: “The Power” by Rhonda Byrne.

Next goal: Exercise more.