Shelbyville, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Older adults in the community often lacked clear plans for how to respond to severe weather and other emergencies. This left them unsure about evacuation steps, supplies and communication. Marnel C. Moorman Family Life Center addressed this gap through hands-on preparedness sessions that focused on practical planning, first aid basics and emergency alerts. Participants created personal emergency plans and received checklists, local contact information and preparedness resources they could use at home. The sessions also encouraged people to talk through plans with family and neighbors. This strengthened informal support networks. One participant shared, "I created an emergency plan, learned how to use my supplies and even helped my neighbor update theirs. I feel safer." By building skills and confidence, the project helped older adults take concrete steps toward being better prepared when emergencies occur.

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

Minneapolis, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Progressive Pathways set out to help residents think realistically about what they would need during summer storms and flooding, since many had never planned for an emergency or talked with neighbors about how to respond. The sessions encouraged people to consider items for their bug-out bags and opened conversations that helped neighbors understand how they could support one another. The gatherings also built new social networks and led to a partnerships that will extend preparedness resources. Residents left with clearer ideas about how to manage future emergencies and will receive ongoing materials and reminders.

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

New Orleans, LA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: The Initiative responded to a pressing need among older adults who face hurricanes and floods but often lack clear, culturally appropriate guidance on preparing for emergencies. The group held disaster-preparedness workshops in Vietnamese and English, giving older adults practical steps for evacuation planning, medication needs and communication during storms. Participants received buckets stocked with essential items, reinforcing what they learned and helping them prepare at home. Many reported greater confidence and awareness of how to respond during disasters. Follow-up calls will help ensure plans are completed and kits are understood. The project strengthened community resilience and deepened trust with all residents.

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