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Blacksburg Regional Art Association (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public art installations
└ Public art installations
To help downtown recover from pandemic isolation, the Association created a mural that celebrates nature and local heritage. An artist age 50-plus designed the 20-by-10-foot piece featuring Stroubles Creek and native plants, turning a blank wall into a vibrant landmark. The mural now anchors plans for an art walk and streetscape, drawing older adults and other residents into public spaces. "It was my pleasure to participate in such a great event," said one supporter, noting the mural's role in showcasing local talent and sparking renewed interest in public art.
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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Minot, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: To increase vibrancy and walkability in Minot's downtown, the city's Downtown Business and Professional Association sponsored three new downtown wall murals, each created by different local artists. To encourage passersby to interact with the murals, the artists hid depictions of objects in each mural's imagery, challenging onlookers to search for elements that seem out of place in the painting's subject matter. The association worked with local businesses to acquire materials, such as paint, brushes and cleaning supplies, for the project. Each mural adorns the wall of a different local business. Over the years, Minot has become known in recent years for its assortment of colorful, creative street art -- an online tourist guide helps visitors find murals throughout town.
Chelsea, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: With the addition of public art, a block of Division Street became a welcoming, safe passageway through downtown Chelsea for pedestrians and cyclists. Community members created 25 pieces of art to adorn the street. Artists painted three full-scale murals, including one created alongside students from a local school, as well as several mini murals. Local older adults also installed art panels. To improve mobility, the City added new sidewalks and repaved the roadway. This project spurred local artists and creatives to form a network and increased support for public art among local property owners. Project organizers say its success represents an important first step to link the heart of downtown with Chelsea's waterfront.
Anchorage, AK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: Fish Creek Trail is a winding, multi-use path connecting schools, parks and a recreation center in Spenard, one of Anchorage's oldest and most diverse neighborhoods. NeighborWorks engaged six local artists, storytellers and graphic designers to create interpretive panels, which they installed along the trail for residents to view as they walk, ride or roll along. The panels display paintings, watercolors and digital designs, which illustrate participants' personal experiences, family tales, memories of using the trail and a traditional Dena'ina story. Project organizers hope the artwork will generate renewed community pride and celebration.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Christiansburg, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in rural Virginia faced isolation during the pandemic, lacking internet access and basic computer skills. To close this gap, the group launched a Mobile Literacy Lab stocked with laptops, hotspots and other tools to deliver classes and tutoring. Two 10-week courses and five workshops taught email basics, safe browsing and virtual meeting skills. The lab now enables older adults to manage tasks like job searches and online communication. "This one hour class helped me more than anyone else in months," said Ellen, who learned to secure her email accounts. With new partnerships and a waiting list for future classes, the lab is set to remain a cornerstone for inclusive learning.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Salem, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older adults often lacked guidance on affordable home safety upgrades and legal planning, leaving them vulnerable to falls and uncertainty about aging in place. The library hosted four expert-led workshops on topics from elder law to home modifications, drawing 122 attendees. Early participants received practical items like nightlights and jar openers, and 100 aging-in-place workbooks were distributed. Attendees said the sessions were "very informative," with one noting, "The elder law talk really helped me know what I need to do to protect myself." Afterwards, many began planning to contact local agencies or pursue safety improvements.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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