Kansas City, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: An underused community garden in the Strawberry Hill neighborhood limited access to fresh produce and social connection, especially for older adults. The association revitalized the space by rehabbing raised beds, restoring sheds and adding pollinator plants. It also hosted cleanup, games and planting events to draw neighbors together. New signage made the garden more inclusive, and a fall harvest festival boosted engagement. The garden now fosters intergenerational activity and reduces isolation, with plans for seasonal programs and volunteer partnerships. One older neighbor, intrigued by the improvements, said he was eager to use a raised bed despite his limited mobility.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Jackson, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Older adults in Jackson lacked accessible ways to learn about healthy eating and gardening, leaving many disconnected from fresh food options. Grow Jackson responded by creating a garden program at a local community center, offering classes on nutrition, gardening and food saving. Participants gained hands-on experience with plants and shared knowledge in a welcoming space. The effort strengthened social ties and sparked plans for expanded programming next summer, ensuring continued engagement and healthier habits.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Eufaula, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: When a local garden closed during the pandemic, older adults and low-income families lost access to fresh produce and a vital community resource. To fill the gap, volunteers created a new garden with raised beds for vegetables and flowers plus accessible benches. They partnered with Twelve Stones to revive gardening efforts and teach maintenance skills for sustainability. The garden now provides nutritious food for families and older adults, supports healthy living and reconnects residents after years without a shared space. Volunteers said they they truly appreciate something in the community that could help provide fresh vegetables for local families.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.