San Francisco, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: Community Living Campaign launched a neighborhood pilot to tackle accessibility barriers that made walking difficult for older adults and people with disabilities. In several San Francisco neighborhoods, broken sidewalks and blocked curb ramps disrupted daily errands, while residents had few clear ways to report problems or track follow up. The project showed residents how to spot issues and report them through city service channels. Older adults joined short walks, meetings and trainings that explained ADA basics and encouraged people to document hazards on their own or with neighbors. Hundreds of residents took part, generating reports shared with city partners. Participants said the effort restored a sense of purpose and connection. One resident said that after retiring she had felt "no longer needed," but that the project energized her and showed her contributions mattered. City agencies have begun weaving the training into ongoing community programs.

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

Wilmington, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: Wilmington residents face high rates of inactivity and chronic health issues, worsened by unsafe streets and limited bike infrastructure. In neighborhoods where many households lack cars, poor walkability restricts mobility and access to essentials. Through Open Streets Wilmington, roads were closed to traffic for events promoting active recreation and healthy living. Pop-up demonstrations showcased safer street designs, including a protected bike lane and improved parking on Baynard Boulevard. These efforts led to permanent changes that enhanced bike safety and pedestrian access. "Open Streets turns streets into neighborhoods and residents into neighbors," said one participant.

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

Lincoln, NE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: Many older adults struggled to use buses and bike share because of language barriers, unfamiliar technology and uncertainty about routes and fares. The City of Lincoln offered in-person trainings that showed participants how to ride transit and use bike share, supported by multilingual written and video materials. Older adults received hands-on guidance, free passes and help practicing trips, including when fixed-route transit or paratransit made sense. Participants reported greater confidence using transit for medical visits, shopping and social activities. Training materials and partnerships remain in use beyond the sessions.

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