Wheatland, WY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: As fewer and fewer residents took up the game, the horseshoe pits in Lewis Park went largely unused. The Town of Wheatland hoped to turn the pits into a more useful space fitting residents' modern tastes. So the Town converted them into pickleball courts. The Town staff worked with volunteers to clear and resurface the space, then install nets, posts, and fencing. To raise money for further improvements -- including seating for spectators -- the Town hosted a fundraising charity onsite. Project organizers say the new courts give people of all ages an option for outdoor exercise. Pickleball is popular with older adults since the fast-paced game is low impact and easy on joints.

Saint Paul, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: After a survey of North End residents revealed a need for additional seating in the Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary, the District 6 Planning Council installed benches along the site's accessible walkways. A local artist designed each bench to depict colorful animals, including a blue and orange turtle, a bright orange otter, a red rabbit and a yellow and green frog. Project organizers say they hope to give visitors a place to rest, enjoy the outdoors and make social connections.

Rochester Hills, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: This grant set out to create an intergenerational exercise space in Bloomer Park. Equipment for the space includes apparatuses for building core muscles, improving posture and working the upper and lower body. Additionally, the space features a water fountain and benches.