Charlotte, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: Charlotte's Little Sugar Creek Greenway is a popular place for pedestrians, but the path through the Parkwood underpass tunnel was dark and uninviting. Working with local partners, Brand the Moth gave the tunnel new life. The organization commissioned two local artists to design a mural, which volunteers helped install during a community paint day. The new artwork represents Charlotte's people, communities and nature. Residents and visitors can now take a walking tour through the mural. Project organizers say they hope the public art project attracts more people to use the greenway.

Elizabeth, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: After the pandemic, residents of Elizabeth faced isolation and lacked safe, vibrant spaces for connection. Kean University Foundation created a walkable art trail with banner murals inspired by residents' stories, plus painted play areas and benches. Older adults collaborated with students and volunteers to design and paint murals, while Echo Show displays in community rooms let residents share photos and stories. The project reduced isolation and strengthened community ties. "I don't think everyone living here knew they could write poems... and they see it every day," said one participant.

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

Lihue, HI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: Lihue's downtown faced unsafe, car-centric streets that limited walkability for residents, especially older adults. To address this, the project added murals to bus shelters and a crosswalk, built a community garden and hosted a dinner where attendees voted on mural designs. Volunteers expanded the garden and engaged older adults in shaping public space. These efforts sparked new partnerships and funding for future improvements like street trees and additional gardens. As one volunteer said, "We're not only growing food, we're growing community," underscoring the project's role in fostering connection and livability.

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