Mayor Jay Moran Declared “Donna Powell Day in Manchester” on Friday, October 30, 2026
It was standing-room warmth at the UR Community Tech Center in Manchester on Friday, October 30, 2026, as friends, neighbors, students, and the many people whose lives Donna Powell has touched came together to celebrate her, over ice cream, proclamations, and a statewide honor that put a cap on years of quiet, tireless service. Watch the YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/nqQhS_Rujaw
The turnout told the story before anyone said a word. The room filled with members who have received help from Donna, participants who have taken a class from her, and the friends she has made across the Manchester community, a crowd that was, in effect, a living record of her impact.
Ice Cream and Community
Capital Ice Cream kept the line moving and the room buzzing all afternoon. Guests were raving about the flavors, Coffee (Donna’s favorite), Mint Chocolate Chip, Sorbet and Graham Cracker, the generous scoops, and the simple pleasure of sharing a cone with neighbors on a fall Friday.
A Town Proclamation
Manchester Mayor Jay Moran and Manchester Town Manager Steve Stephanou took time to present a town proclamation marking the day as Donna Powell Day in Manchester, an official thank-you from the town she has given so much to.
A State Proclamation
Donna also received a state proclamation, recognizing her volunteerism and underscoring the difference that volunteering can make in a community. It was a message that echoed what everyone in the room already knew: one person’s consistent commitment ripples outward.
The 2026 Andrus Award for Community Service
In the afternoon’s highlight, AARP Connecticut State Director Nora Duncan announced that Donna Powell of Manchester has been selected to receive the 2026 Andrus Award for Community Service, AARP’s most prestigious state volunteer award. The award honors her outstanding volunteerism and her commitment to the community.
Ms. Powell is receiving the Andrus Award in recognition of her substantial contributions and significant impact across a variety of UR Community Cares areas. She received the award at the ice cream social ceremony at the UR Community Tech Center.
Looking Ahead
If Friday proved anything, it’s that Donna Powell’s work is woven into the fabric of Manchester, through the people she has helped, the classes she has taught, and the friendships she has built along the way.
Congratulations, Donna. Enjoy the day that bears your name,
UR Community Cares Team
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