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Borough of Closter (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
A barren alley in the downtown district left older adults without a safe, comfortable spot to rest while shopping or socializing. The borough converted the space into a pocket park with benches, plantings and solar lighting, creating a pleasant passageway between parking and local businesses. The park now hosts pop-up art events and serves as a meeting point for residents. "This charming pocket park provides respite for seniors and passersby to socialize, bringing the community together," said a local council member.
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
Newfolden, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: City of Newfolden set out to solve a clear problem: older adults who rely on the local Senior Center had no accessible outdoor place to meet, socialize or enjoy fresh air. The city created a gathering space with ADA compliant seating, weather-ready awnings and table scapes designed for wheelchairs, giving residents a comfortable place for conversation, meals and games. The improvements support daily connection and help older adults stay engaged in community life. Final pieces, including two custom table scapes, will complete the site. Local students and volunteers will help activate the area, strengthening intergenerational ties and long term use.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Richford, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Richford lacked outdoor spaces for older adults to socialize and stay active, leaving many isolated despite frequent visits to the health center. The project created an outdoor Welcome Center with seating, raised garden beds, an informational kiosk and a lending pantry. Weather-resistant tables and umbrellas encourage outdoor meals and community interaction. Residents now enjoy a scenic, accessible space for gatherings and health-focused events. One staff member shared how his mother, a housing tenant, now joins him for lunch outside-a simple change fostering connection and well-being.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nowata, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: An unused alley in downtown Nowata was transformed into a welcoming space for older adults and other residents to gather. The project added ADA-compliant benches and tables, flower beds, lighting, a modular stage and anchors for an outdoor movie screen. The alley now hosts events like movie nights and awareness programs, creating a consistent venue for community activities. One organizer noted that experiencing meaningful and fun activities now available will help the community come together.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Westwood, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To provide a safe and enjoyable gathering space, the Borough of Westwood created a parklet. Meant to sit in the footprint of a parking space, the parklet was designed to give people of all ages, ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds a place to sit and relax in Westwood's central business district.
Mount Vernon, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Expanding HighSpeed Internet
Description: NewFlex Youth Programs addressed digital skill gaps that left many older adults struggling to use smartphones and tablets for everyday tasks, limiting communication and access to essential services. The project delivered hands-on, one-on-one technology support through intergenerational workshops. Youth interns and students met older adults in familiar community spaces and provided personalized help with messaging, email, apps and device navigation. As the program evolved, structured scheduling and hybrid options expanded access while reinforcing skills already learned. The approach built trust and normalized asking for help, leading to repeat participation and older adults proactively requesting sessions. One participant, a board member age 50 and over, said individualized instruction finally helped her master tasks she had struggled with for years and motivated her to continue learning after receiving a session summary and certificate.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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