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Charleston, SC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The American College of the Building Arts installed benches and a new pergola to create a multigenerational gathering space at the Community's Hope Impact Center, a local community center. The College saw the installation process as an opportunity for education, holding workshops on masonry where volunteers helped lay bricks for the space's walkway. With a goal of preserving, enriching and educating about architectural heritage, the organization trains artisans in traditional building crafts, such as carpentry and forging architectural iron. It was founded in the wake of Hurricane Hugo in 1989, which damaged or destroyed much of coastal South Carolina's historic architecture.
Readfield, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Organizers with Age-Friendly Readfield knew their town was in need of a facelift. To help meet the needs of residents facing food insecurity, they provided a local food bank with a sandwich sign board, rolling delivery cart and new cooler. They also upgraded the town library's outdoor space by adding Adirondack chairs and tables. Finally, they provided chairs and a kayak dock for Readfield's beach. A multigenerational group of volunteers cleaned up both the library park and beach. Organizers say these same volunteers will now be involved in programming at both outdoor spaces.
Clarkston, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will turn unused office space into a community center, which will host activities including crocheting and Tai Chi. The center will serve as a gathering space for residents, including the community's many migrant families.
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Huntsville, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: To make their city more environmentally friendly and attractive to bikers, the South Huntsville Main Business Association installed bike racks at grocery stores, parks and other frequently used locations. Each of the 36 racks feature a compass design created by local artist Bruce Weddendorf. Since their installation, business owners have reported an uptick in employees cycling to work. The city is now considering a proposal to require all businesses to install bike racks.
Moulton, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To revitalize Moulton's downtown area, Moulton Lions Club created parklets, a mural and temporary, artistic crosswalks. The mural is located along Bylar Road -- the area's oldest public road -- and showcases the route's history. To Project organizers also outfitted several parklets with movable benches, chairs and umbrellas to increase foot traffic and provide rest and shade during events, including the annual Strawberry Festival. In addition, the Lions Club created artistic crosswalks with sidewalk chalk. Each had a local theme, from educating locals about endangered salamanders to paying homage to local resident Jesse Owen, who competed at the 1936 Olympics. Lions Club organizers says they hope the project will spur residents to consider how art can make public spaces more appealing.
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