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.

Skowhegan, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Older adults lacked safe, accessible walking routes to downtown and essential services, leaving them isolated and limiting recovery options for those prescribed walking for health. The town regraded the trail to meet ADA standards, added bench seating along a new retaining wall and installed underground utilities for future lighting. These upgrades created a defined, safer passage to the pedestrian bridge and nearby trails, improving access to the hospital, library and municipal offices. Footbridge use has already increased. "I was approached by several residents that expressed their gratitude... It was inspiring to know that what we were doing was making a difference," said a project lead.

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

Imperial, NE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: A vacant lot in the heart of Imperial's downtown had been an eyesore for decades. To put the space to better use, the City of Imperial activated the space, creating a new pocket park. Volunteers helped create several murals onsite and installed a mosaic dragon sculpture, designed to double as a play structure for children. Using upcycled existing picnic tables and railroad ties, they also created a circular seating area, dubbed the chatroom. Local elementary school students and residents of an assisted living facility teamed up to paint tiles to decorate outdoor sectional couch. And volunteers laid down artificial turf -- a material chosen to make the mini-park easy to maintain. Raised flower beds completed the space. Since the mini-park's completion, organizers say community members continue to brainstorm ways to improve the pocket park, which they say has revitalized Imperial's arts scene.