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The Center for Planning Excellence (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Older residents in Bunkie lacked walkable routes and green spaces, limiting opportunities for social connection and physical activity. The project introduced a historic walking tour with a wayfinding sign, pamphlets and a dedicated bench along the route. The tour promotes activity and community ties while building support for Complete Streets improvements. "I rarely came out and walk anymore but I'm excited to take the self-guided walking tour with my grandchildren now," said one participant.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Newfolden, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: City of Newfolden set out to solve a clear problem: older adults who rely on the local Senior Center had no accessible outdoor place to meet, socialize or enjoy fresh air. The city created a gathering space with ADA compliant seating, weather-ready awnings and table scapes designed for wheelchairs, giving residents a comfortable place for conversation, meals and games. The improvements support daily connection and help older adults stay engaged in community life. Final pieces, including two custom table scapes, will complete the site. Local students and volunteers will help activate the area, strengthening intergenerational ties and long term use.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Columbia, SC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A community garden featuring lighting, shaded seating and raised beds will be established to support caregivers and adults age 50-plus. The space will promote low‑impact physical activity, stress reduction and social connection.
Wilmington, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A new wetland park in Wilmington lacked seating, shade and signage, limiting its appeal for residents, including older adults. The project added five benches, nine shade trees and interpretive panels explaining the park's ecology and flood benefits. Community programs engaged more than 200 residents through nature walks and volunteer tree planting. "AARP added value to the park and gives opportunities for community to pause and reflect," said a project manager. These improvements make the park more inviting and encourage healthy outdoor activity and social connection.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Baton Rouge, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
Description: Baton Rouge's fragmented transit system left riders and operators without reliable service, forcing older adults and low-income residents to endure long waits and limited access to jobs and resources. The project organized community meetings to unite riders and operators, began developing a regional dashboard for transparency, and launched a video chronicling a day on local transit. Strong turnout and commitments from transit agencies marked a major step toward collaboration, laying the groundwork for a master plan and long-term improvements in service.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
West Baton Rouge, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Description: The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge has been involved in community art and arts education for many years. The Council engaged professional writing instructors to hold two workshops for older adults in creative writing, poetry, self-publication and basic editing. They then invited participants to share their writing with the public at an open mic night. Project organizers also created a post-workshop online forum, allowing the cohort to continue writing together and receiving feedback on their work.
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