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Central Falls, RI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Progreso Latino hoped to make better use of its limited outdoor space, expand its program offerings and help combat social isolation among older adults. The organization -- which serves Latino/a elders -- built a community pavilion in the heart of Central Falls to serve as a safe, outdoor gathering space. Organizers outfitted the space with tables and chairs and installed bollards to protect it from vehicle traffic. The pavilion's significance as a community space increased when Central Falls' only other senior center closed. Today the space hosts Zumba classes, walking groups, performances and vaccine clinics.

Belmond, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The project will convert a narrow Main Street lot into an accessible pocket park with seating and shade. The space will offer a place to rest, gather and enjoy downtown events.

Memphis, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Vacant parcels will be cleared and rebuilt as green space with accessible paths, seating and garden areas for everyday use. These improvements will provide neighbors with a comfortable place to gather, rest outdoors and attend small events together.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Las Cruces, NM

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: To strengthen community ties and reduce isolation among older adults, Cruces Creatives led a paint-by-numbers mural project in downtown Las Cruces. More than 600 residents, including nearly 200 people age 50-plus, helped transform a highly visible wall into an 1,800-square-foot work of art. The mural gives volunteers lasting pride and has prompted continued engagement with local programs. Integrated research will produce the first peer-reviewed study on participatory public art, shaping similar efforts elsewhere. One participant summed up the experience: "Being a team and working together to improve our city feels fulfilling."

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

Las Cruces, NM

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: To make its downtown more bike-friendly, the Downtown Las Cruces installed 40 bike tacks. Based on feedback from the local cycling community, project organizers painted the racks racer green. Engagement with local business owners and volunteers determined the best locations to place the racks. In the future, Downtown Las Cruces expects placemaking efforts to continue with new shade sails. The City of Las Cruces also has plans for a new green path to facilitate biking and walking.

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