Lake City, SC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: The City of Lake City addressed a lack of safe, accessible places for residents to walk and exercise downtown, a gap that limited no-cost options for physical activity for older adults. Damaged sidewalks and unclear routes discouraged regular outdoor movement and made walking less comfortable. The city repaired sidewalks and created a clearly defined downtown walking trail, supported by trailhead signage and sidewalk decals developed with local partners. Health and recreation organizations helped connect the trail to programs that encourage routine use, including walking as part of personal wellness plans. Older adults now have a safer, more inviting route for daily walking close to other community resources. The trail is positioned as a lasting asset that supports ongoing health efforts and provides a foundation for future improvements.

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

Perth Amboy, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: Perth Amboy sought to create a welcoming space that reflects its cultural heritage and fosters intergenerational connections. The "Eternal Bonds: Stories of Love and Legacy" mural project installed three custom-designed murals in the Housing Authority's community room, with older adults shaping the design through a paint-and-sip event. The unveiling celebration drew more than 100 attendees, including local artists and residents. The murals transformed the room into a cultural hub for ongoing events, strengthened social ties and promoted local artists. Diverse involvement ensured the artwork reflects shared values, and the project is expected to boost community pride and engagement for years to come.

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

Houston, TX

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: Organizers with the North Houston Management District noticed many of Houston's murals found in the city's more affluent neighborhoods. To bring quality public art to the Aldine neighborhood and draw visitors to the local library, the District painted an augmented reality mural. The artwork depicts the word knowledge on a colorful backdrop. Passersby can use a smartphone app to scan the mural, allowing them to experience additional multimedia content. The mural is the first augmented reality project of its kind in Houston. Project organizers say the creative placemaking effort is meant to build neighborhood pride and a positive local identity to lower-income, predominantly Black and Latino North Houston.