Charleston, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: To make its underused East End Community Park more inviting, the City of Charleston added a splash pad, playground equipment and new greenery. First, the City held a community clean up day, where volunteers helped prepare the site. Then the City installed new equipment, including a swing set, two ski walker gliders and a water umbrella for the splash pad. The City also planted trees to shade the park's walking path and improve its overall appearance. In addition, they added lighting to improve park safety by illuminating the walking path, the community garden and other areas. Since these changes, project organizers report more families are using the park and neighbors are chipping in to keep the area free of litter.

Holy Cross, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: This project will renovate the tennis court and add two pickleball courts with ADA access and portable benches. This will improve health and provide diverse recreational amenities for residents, especially those age 50 and over.

Crooks, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: This project will transform a parcel of land into a vibrant Veterans Park with historical displays, colorful landscaping, and memorials honoring soldiers past and present.