Perryville, MO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Downtown Perryville Advancement addressed a basic but persistent barrier to walkability: the lack of clear, non-digital wayfinding in the downtown core. For older adults who prefer physical maps or have limited access to smartphones, finding shops, restaurants and everyday services could be frustrating and discouraging. The project installed a permanent wayfinding sign at a key pedestrian intersection, clearly marking directions to downtown destinations and allowing people to orient themselves at a glance. Community members noted they discovered businesses and attractions they had not realized were nearby. The sign now supports easier navigation, greater confidence and a willingness to park once and walk, reinforcing downtown as a place older adults can move through independently and comfortably.

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

Dixon, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Webster County Senior Center has delivered meals to homebound older adults for years. But the center has never fully used its large outdoor greenspace and patio. To make the space more appealing, the center created an outdoor seating area with benches, tables and games, which allow visitors to dine outdoors and make social connections. Today, residents use the space for bingo and board games between meals, and the patio hosts community events.

La Crosse, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: La Crosse's food forest produces fruit and vegetables for the community, helps absorb stormwater runoff and serves as a communal gathering place. The forest, however, did not have seating along its many paths. To beautify the forest and give visitors a place to rest, the La Crosse Area Family YMCA created artistic benches. Younger people worked with older adult mentors to design, assemble and decorate each bench. Many pay homage to the forest, featuring images of plants and vegetables. Project organizers say the public art effort fostered intergenerational cohesion, and residents consider the new benches to be source of community pride.