Klamath Falls, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Downtown Klamath Falls had dark, uninviting alleyways that discouraged foot traffic and community engagement. The project installed a mosaic mural created by older adults and additional artwork by local artists on a downtown building. Participants painted individual tiles during four sessions at the center, and the finished piece was unveiled at a celebratory event. The murals brighten alleyways, encourage pedestrian use and foster a sense of pride and inclusion among older adults. "I was so glad to be involved on this project," said one participant.

Nashville, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: With the goal of reducing social isolation for older residents, Urban Housing Solutions designed and constructed a temporary parklet at Mercury Court, a small affordable housing community close to downtown Nashville. The organization outfitted the outdoor space with patio chairs, picnic tables, planter boxes, solar string lights and shade umbrellas. They also repainted a community room and decorated a wall with graphics celebrating the property's history. To ensure the space enables social interaction, a group of residents worked to coordinate social events, such as movie and game nights and community meals. In addition, Mercury Courts residents have shown interest in using the new planter boxes as garden beds. Urban Housing Solutions is a nonprofit housing developer serving Nashville's unhoused and low-income residents.

Dade City, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Community parks lacked ADA-compliant picnic tables, leaving older adults and families without safe, comfortable places to gather. Responding to resident requests, the city installed 10 sturdy tables with signage and concrete pads across multiple parks, creating accessible spaces for rest and celebration. These upgrades encourage older adults to spend more time outdoors, walk to parks and connect with loved ones. Residents shared excitement on social media, saying they plan to visit more often now that seating is available, making Dade City parks more inviting for people of all ages.