Henderson, NV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project created Henderson's first public community garden. Originally a demonstration garden with six raised beds, the City converted the plot at Heritage Park Senior Facility the guidance of Garden Farms of Nevada, whose mission is to help desert communities learn how to grow their own food. Improvements included new drip-irrigation tubing and fresh topsoil. Project organizers say a key goal was fostering community and giving older adults a change to socialize. In February 2020, the City held a planting party. After that, older adults began to meet at the garden, where they learned to grow produce to share with their neighbors. Although gardening activity paused during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City was able to harvest and donate crops to Henderson's Senior Grocery Program, which distributed the produce to local older adults.

Seaford, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project will improve a community garden, adding growing tables, water and soil for older adults who are unable to garden in plots. Expert gardeners will also provide training on growing flowers, herbs and vegetables.

Reno, NV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project will provide fresh produce and educational programs for a diverse community in Reno. The garden features accessible, raised beds for older adults and hosts nutrition workshops, promoting health and community connection.