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Central Mississippi Inc. (2025) Print
2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Public or private transit access
└ Public or private transit access
Central Mississippi Inc. tackled the lack of reliable rides that left many older adults in rural areas missing care, struggling with groceries and losing control over daily schedules. The project provided on-demand trips for people age 50-plus, easing financial strain and helping riders reach medical appointments and stores without relying on others. Three community events built social connection, and volunteers spread the word about available services. One participant receiving cancer treatment described feeling supported throughout a full-day outing. The effort spurred resident interest and encouraged officials to explore sustaining shared transportation.
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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Vincennes, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Sheltered covers will be added over benches at key public transit stops. Protection from the weather will make waiting safer and more comfortable for older riders.
Orange, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Benches will be added at town transit stops and other walking areas. The seating will help older adults rest comfortably while waiting for transportation or while walking around town.
Casper, WY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: The Casper Area Transportation Coalition, the former transit provider for the region, aimed to provide better and safer service to bus riders traveling to and from the Hilltop Center. The bus stop serving those riders -- one of the most heavily-used in Casper -- consisted of nothing but an unprotected bench. To solve this, the Coalition erected a five-foot-by-10-foot shelter at the stop. The project also added a second bench to accommodate more riders. To cover unexpected costs, the coalition obtained a second grant from another organization to take the project over the finish line. In 2021, the City of Casper took over operation of the local bus service.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Winona, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options
Description: On-demand rides will be provided across multiple rural counties to help adults over 50 reach medical care, groceries and services. Expanded transit access will reduce long travel gaps for people who live far from stores and clinics.
Greenwood, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Walkability
Description: Unsafe sidewalks and speeding traffic made walking hazardous for older adults in Greenwood. The project trained participants to use the MAPS-Mini audit tool, conduct walk audits and join community meetings to push for repairs and safer crossings. These efforts sparked advocacy for walkable neighborhoods and healthier lifestyles. One resident shared that previously she had to walk close to the curb, which created a dangerous path for her. Her story highlighted the need for change.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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