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Better Block Foundation (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Transportation Systems Change
└ Transportation Systems Change
Better Block Foundation tackled unsafe streets and missing sidewalks in Dallas, where older adults lacked accessible spaces to gather. The team installed an ADA ramp, added benches at bus stops and introduced speed bumps near a food bank serving 1,800 families. Volunteers transformed a parking lot into a shaded seating area and created market stall designs for future use. The effort prompted city discussions on street redesign and tree planting. As one partner said about the speed bumps, "We are so grateful... It's very dangerous. We have needed them for a long time."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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See More Projects Like This One
McLoud, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
Description: Older adults in the tribe faced isolation and limited mobility in a rural area with few transportation options. To reconnect tribal elders with cultural traditions and community life, the tribe organized trips, including transportation for 52 participants to the Meskwaki Powwow and a community viewing of Killers of the Flower Moon. These events revived cherished traditions and strengthened social ties. "Without this... I would not have been able to take a trip and see my old friends in Iowa," one elder said. The project prompted policy changes to fund future trips and inspired similar efforts by neighboring tribes.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Green Valley, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
Description: Valley Assistance Services expanded its volunteer driver program to help older adults in rural Arizona overcome the lack of affordable transportation for medical care and daily needs. Eleven new drivers now provide free round-trip rides for appointments, errands and social activities. This is additionally supported by RN home visits to assess health and mobility. One participant shared that volunteer drivers made it possible to keep weekly oncology treatments, even on short notice, offering peace of mind and continuity of care. Outreach and partnerships ensure the service will keep growing.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cincinnati, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
Description: Transportation barriers limit independence for older adults in southwestern Ohio. To improve access, COA launched the Passenger Portal, enabling online trip booking and management. The rollout included tutorial videos, a direct mail campaign to 35,000 residents and five outreach events. Early adoption brought 61 registered users and 187 free rides. One caller shared how the service let her brother join Thanksgiving dinner, calling it a "sense of independence" that strengthened family ties. The portal now offers a lasting tool for autonomy and efficiency in specialized transportation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Dallas, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Pedestrian Safety
Description: The project will install temporary crossings, curb extensions and traffic calming elements at a Dallas intersection. These changes will make it safer to walk to bus stops and parks and will guide future permanent street upgrades.
Dallas, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: Older homeowners will receive free critical home repairs and accessibility upgrades. The work will address safety issues with roofs, plumbing, ramps and bathrooms, helping residents stay in their homes.
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