Lajas, PR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: Hurricane Fiona exposed gaps in emergency support for older adults in Lajas. The organization upgraded its community technology center into a resilient hub with backup power, water reserves and radio communications. During outages, residents accessed hot meals, charged devices and coordinated relief efforts. "Thanks to the generator, our center became a meeting point where health and well-being were prioritized," said a volunteer. The center now offers digital literacy programs and plans solar upgrades and CERT training to boost long-term resilience.

Cape Coral, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: Hurricane Ian stripped Cape Coral's parks of shade and greenery, leaving recreation areas exposed and vulnerable. Keep Lee County Beautiful responded by planting 80 native trees at the BMX Sports Complex. Volunteers learned proper planting techniques while restoring the canopy, which will cool the area, filter pollutants and reduce stormwater runoff for years to come. The effort sparked community spirit. "Youth had so much fun planting the trees that they stayed around and did a park cleanup afterwards," one organizer said, underscoring how recovery work united residents.

Trenton, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: To honor first responders who saved lives during Hurricane Florence, the Town of Trenton planned to develop a new park. The green space's design focuses on mobility and includes a freshwater pond, memorial and gathering space for entertainment. Organizers hope the project helps the community as it recovers from the storm.