See More Projects Like This One

Moab, UT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: A free outdoor fitness pod will be created, featuring strength and balance equipment in a walkable community space. The project will support healthy aging, fall prevention and social connection.

Blytheville, AR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: An ADA accessible outdoor classroom with gardens and activity areas will be created at the local Senior Citizens Center. The space will support learning, social interaction and low-impact outdoor use.

Aibonito, PR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The El Campito plaza had deteriorated, leaving older adults without a safe outdoor place to gather, exercise or socialize. Many relied on the nearby community center but lacked an accessible public space that supported mobility and everyday activity. The project secured age-friendly equipment and finalized plans for reconstruction, including low-impact fitness machines, rocking chairs and a shaded table area selected with older residents in mind. It also accelerated existing plans for full rehabilitation. Once construction is complete, the plaza will offer free exercise options, comfortable seating and a regular hub for social connection.

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

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.

LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED

Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages

people icon

Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities

download icon

Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter

mail icon

Don't see your community listed?

LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORK

Connect with your AARP State Office

AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

AARP New Mexico State Office

535 Cerrillos Road
Suite A
Santa Fe, NM 87501
United States

Phone: 866-389-5636
Fax: 505-820-2889
Email: [email protected]