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New York City, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Digital navigation skills

Description: In Southeast Queens, many older adults face a digital divide that limits access to health care and social connection. Forestdales Baby Genius program paired older adults with tech-savvy youth for hands-on training, teaching skills like texting, email attachments and app downloads. Ten youth tutors worked with 50 older adults in one-on-one sessions, while workshops and events reached more than 700 participants. The program reduced isolation and built confidence, enabling older adults to use telehealth and connect with family. One participant said learning to video chat with her daughter using her phone was "life-changing," and demand for more sessions continues to grow.

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

Denver, CO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Digital navigation skills

Description: Many older adults in Montbello lacked digital skills needed to access online services and stay connected. The committee expanded its training center and delivered an eight-week program that taught computer basics, file management, word processing, spreadsheets, email and digital safety. They added five computers and integrated skills into other programs. Participants reported greater confidence and independence. One participant said that she had always feared "breaking the computer", but now uses it comfortably to manage essential tasks.

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

Shelbyville, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Digital navigation skills

Description: Many older adults in Shelbyville faced difficulty in navigating digital tools needed for daily life. The Family Life Center offered classes and personalized coaching that helped participants practice email, texting, telehealth and other essential tasks. Teens served as digital mentors, creating a patient environment where everyone could learn at their own pace. Participants said the instruction was helpful and reassuring, noting how learning simple skills made them feel more connected and independent. The project strengthened social ties, reduced isolation and positioned the Family Life Center as a trusted hub for ongoing digital inclusion and future partnerships.

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

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Casselberry, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: The Hindu Society of Central Florida is a vital center of the Hindu community. However, the temple's grounds needed a facelift. IDEAS for Us upgraded landscaping in the Society's courtyard, planting 250 native plants, as well as two magnolia trees. They also installed benches and an arbor to create a self-seeding, perennial garden that society members can use throughout the year. The project helped spur a thriving garden program and laid the groundwork for expansion to the space.

Orlando, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Accessory dwelling units, tiny homes and manufactured housing

Description: To make accessory dwelling units easier to understand and use, Orlando launched an education campaign focused on aging in place. The city created bilingual brochures, enhanced its website and hosted six community sessions plus a major event on home safety. Nearly 400 people attended, and materials remain available online and at community centers. The effort clarified permitting and financing options, helping families explore ADUs as a housing solution. As one participant noted, "Families need clear guidance on what makes an ADU and why it matters."

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

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