Milwaukee, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Mujeres con Poder addressed barriers that made Kozy Park difficult to use for everyday activities, especially for older adults who needed places to rest and feel safe staying longer. Limited seating and unclear safety information meant some residents shortened visits or avoided the park, despite its role as a neighborhood gathering space. The project added benches and safety and wellness signage and paired these upgrades with community walks and planning sessions centered on resident input. The changes had an immediate effect. One grandmother shared that a bench near the playground now allows her to bring her grandson more often because she can sit in the shade while he plays. Together, these improvements supported more consistent park use and strengthened ongoing collaboration around safety and reducing isolation for older adults.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Ottawa, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The project will install new ADA compliant sidewalks connecting parking areas to busy shelter houses in Forest Park. Safer walking routes will reduce fall risk and help people attend events and use the park with greater confidence.

Carrington, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The first phase of a public garden enhancement will add smooth concrete walkways and resting spots to create clear, accessible movement. These features will make it easier to walk through the gardens and spend time outdoors near downtown services.