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La Crosse, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Cia Siab -- a nonprofit serving the local Hmoob community -- wanted to ensure its community center was accessible to people of all ages and abilities. But the stairs at the building's entrance posed a challenge to community elders who use wheelchairs, scooters or other mobility devices. To fix this, the City of La Crosse installed two ramps. The center offers programming to the community, including Hmoob language camp, women's circle and elders program. Access to the site is especially important for Hmong elders, who often struggle with depression, PTSD and social isolation due to their experiences of war, displacement and loss. Since installing the ramps, the City has looked for other community spaces that would benefit from accessibility upgrades.
Kansas City, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Kansas City lacked seating in parks, bus stops and social service areas, leaving older adults without safe places to rest during long waits or walks. Deferred maintenance and concentrated development deepened this gap, especially in Justice40 neighborhoods. The project installed 12 benches, including buddy benches, at six parks across five neighborhoods, adding concrete pads and memorial plaques for durability. These benches improve comfort, accessibility and community connectedness while advancing the city's Community for All Ages initiative. "It may seem like a small thing... but many of our public spaces do not have places for people to sit," said one of the project planners.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Powers, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: This project will remodel City Halls lobby to be fully ADA-compliant, adding automatic doors, wheelchair access, a widened entryway, and an accessible service counter.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Quincy, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital Connectivity for Disasters
Description: Older adults faced delays in receiving critical health updates during emergencies when information changes rapidly. The health department launched a mobile app for real-time alerts and daily health tips, promoted through health fairs and social media. The app now speeds emergency communication, reduces misleading information and strengthens trust in local health authorities. It also helps residents find services like flu clinics and will support future features such as payment integration. One user said it made it so easy to find a clinic right in her own town, underscoring its role in keeping people informed and prepared.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Jerseyville, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bike Audits
Description: Jerseyville had no bike infrastructure, leaving older adults without safe routes to reach grocery stores and other essentials. Bike audits revealed critical gaps, from missing bike lanes and traffic-calming measures, to the need for signage and parking. These findings will guide a Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, expected to prompt long-term upgrades and safety education. A local cycling advocate said he was excited to see the city begin this effort, calling it an important step toward improving biking and pedestrian access.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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