Leipsic, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The Village of Leipsic installed a firepit with a pergola and adult swings in Bennett Park. The Village also provided permanent outdoor games for people of all ages, including four concrete cornhole boards and an outdoor checkers and chess board. Before these upgrades, community members considered the park a work in progress. But this project sparked additional investment in the park, including work to fix a drainage issue affecting a nearby playground. Bennett Park is an outstanding athletic complex being enhanced by a new community track, this funding will allow us to further develop playground and family attractions in our newest park, Village Administrator Justin Barnhart said.

McComb, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: McComb prides itself on the public park on the village's east side, which encompasses four baseball fields, tennis and basketball courts, a public pool, two reservoirs for boating, walking and fitness trails and a 36-hole disc golf course. The McComb Economic Development Organization installed drinking fountains and benches around the reservoir, plus a merry-go-round and several swings, including one designed specifically for wheelchair users. The park has remained an important community resource and serves as the location for events, such as the annual McComb Cookie Festival.

Canistota, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: This project set out to improve an undeveloped park. To do this, the City installed accessible picnic tables, benches and a water fountain onsite. Organizers hope the improvements improve safety at the park, making residents more likely to visit.