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Tell us how being a part of The Ethel Community has impacted your life.
The Ethel is built on connection, women supporting women, and shared experiences. We know there are countless stories—both big and small—that show the impact of being part of The Ethel. And we want to hear them.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of all 50 states and DC who are 18 and older. Promotion runs from June 1, 2026 at 8:00 AM Eastern Time through Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Void where prohibited. Administrator: AARP
By submitting this form, you agree to the Official Rules and acknowledge that, if selected as a winner, your essay may be published by The Ethel or related AARP platforms.
Prize & Selection
What else you might like to know:
- The deadline to enter an essay is Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
- Prizes include Visa gift cards awarded to first ($500), second ($300) and third-place ($100) entries, as outlined in the Official Rules.
- Three winners will be selected and notified via email from aarpethel@aarp.org on or by Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Winners must complete a signed release, and the essay will be published on The Ethel From AARP.
- Each person can enter once by logging in to their AARP account. If you do not have one, you may create a free AARP account.
- After logging in, you will see an AARP page where you can submit your contest entry and confirm that you agree to the Official Rules of the essay contest.
- Once your entry has been submitted, you will see a "Success!" confirmation page.
Read Past Winning Essays
We were overwhelmed and touched by the hundreds of submissions we received from women all across the country. Here are a few of their stories.
About The Ethel Newsletter
Inspired by AARP's founder, Ethel Percy Andrus, our community joyfully celebrates the strength, style and spirit of women 50, 60, 70 and beyond.