David Washburn, who served as editor of the Senior Voice for more than three decades before retiring last March, was honored with the Ron Hammett Award in May. The award recognizes individuals who work to improve the lives of seniors in the community.
David Washburn received the 2025 Ron Hammett Award from the Municipality of Anchorage Senior Citizens Advisory Commission on May 7.
Washburn, the long-serving editor of the Senior Voice who retired in March, was singled out for his service over the course of a three-decade career at the Senior Voice. The award was presented during Older Americans Month in May.
"My community work has been your community work," Washburn said in receiving the award at the Anchorage Senior Activities Center.
In 2005, the Municipality's Senior Citizens Advisory Commission established the Ron Hammett Award, recognizing individuals whose outstanding service, dedication and leadership has had a significant impact on the quality of life for seniors in the Municipality of Anchorage. At the time of his death on October 24, 2004, Hammett was a commissioner for the SCAC and served with "quiet wisdom, well-chosen words, and a clear focus on human needs," according to a statement from the Municipality.
Hammett was a World War II veteran and served in the occupation of Japan. When he spoke of his time in Japan, he spoke with an empathy for the Japanese people when others were less sympathetic to their plight. This was symbolic of how he lived his entire life and the dedication he demonstrated in serving others. Hammett spent his professional career in Oregon and Alaska, primarily in the field of vocational rehabilitation and health services. After his arrival in Alaska in 1976, he quickly became involved with Bean's Café, the Boys and Girls Club, and a variety of boards and commissions that addressed human needs.
Annually, the Ron Hammett Award recognizes the contribution of Hammett and others like him who work tirelessly to improve the lives of seniors in the community. To nominate a person, look for the nominating form next spring on the Municipality's website.
