Virginia City, MT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Virginia City's historic library and museum were inaccessible to many older adults and visitors with mobility challenges. The project funded a six-month accessibility study, including public workshops and an online survey, resulting in a detailed report with prioritized improvements. It also produced schematic designs for ramps and parking. The effort raised awareness and prompted officials to include access goals in planning documents. One older adult who is a resident said he stopped visiting because of stairs and urged changes so he could "check out books and DVDs like he used to."

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

Deerfield, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: An automatic door opener will be added to a municipal building to support multigenerational programs for older adults. This upgrade will make entry easier and safer and help people of all ages access activities independently.

Cheyenne, OK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Older adults and residents with mobility challenges struggled to access all areas of the Rook Event Center because temporary wooden handrails were unstable and unsafe. Friends of the Rook replaced them with permanent, ADA-compliant handrails at key locations, including the top level, doorway transition and patio ramp. Volunteers assisted with design and cleanup. The new handrails improved safety and accessibility, enabling older adults to navigate the space confidently. At a recent fundraiser, many used the handrails to reach the lower level, and the project sparked community interest in further accessibility upgrades.

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