Anaconda, MT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Anaconda-Deer Lodge County purchased two ADA-compliant picnic tables to accommodate older adults and residents with disabilities. Placed in Kennedy Commons, the tables are painted the distinctive accessibility blue, making them easily identifiable. County staff installed them on level ground so they are easy for wheelchair users to access. In the future, the County expects to purchase eight more tables so residents can gather and dine together.

Northfield, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: The Red Chair Project gives older adults and people with disabilities attending community concerts and events the assurance that accessible, comfortable seating is available for them. FiftyNorth and Age-Friendly Northfield purchased 52 sturdy chairs with hand rests, as well as signage for use during outdoor events. City employees and volunteers set up the chairs for public gatherings, including the annual Defeat of Jesse James celebration and the Grand Parade.

Hibbing, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: The Hibbings Farmers' Market, a local market that participates in federal food assistance programs, is expanding its Power of Produce program, which provides discount tokens to older adults. To enable this, the market added a covered porch and chairs to its facilities, providing a shaded area for participants to meet local producers, attend events and socialize with other community members. Organizers ensured the seating area had non-slip, even flooring to accommodate marketgoers of all ages and abilities. Since completing the porch, more accessibility upgrades are in the works.