See More Projects Like This One

Augusta, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Organizers with the Augusta Recreation and Parks Department noticed people were driving their vehicles into Henry H. Brigham Park, making park users feel unsafe. This project set out to prevent this, keeping a walking track, basketball court and playground area free from cars and trucks. The Department installed bollards, as well as benches -- which served the dual purpose of giving park patrons a place to rest. Additionally, organizers planted shade trees to make the park more appealing in the summer heat. To draw visitors, the Department also worked to increase recreational programming in the park, including Tai Chi classes.

Searchlight Township, NV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: As part of long-term efforts to improve Rex Bell, Jr. Trails Park, the Searchlight Betterment Organization installed a bocce ball court onsite. The courts are open to the public four days a week and participants can check out game sets to use for free. Project organizers say the courts have helped combat social isolation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since construction completed, the site has offered lessons on the rules of bocce ball, and volunteers have stepped in to coordinate local player groups for adults and children

Hattiesburg, MS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Duncan Lake Park in Hattiesburg's East Jerusalem neighborhood is popular with residents, yet many of the park's amenities were in disrepair. To give the park new life, Hattiesburg Landmark Preservation refurbished picnic tables with new tops featuring painted checkerboards. They also installed new benches, added a wheelchair-accessible sidewalk and created two murals depicting native plants and animals. Today, the park hosts free arts programming for residents of all ages.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Corry, PA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Trails

Description: When the City of Corry developed its long-term strategic plan, one of its primary objectives was improving access to greenspace. Most residents live more than a ten-minute walk from local parks and trails. To better connect neighborhoods to a local greenway, Impact Corry transformed an underused, overgrown pathway into an accessible trail. Volunteers worked to install amenities along the route, including benches designed by local artists and a pollinator-friendly gardens. Project organizers also added solar-powered crossing beacons street intersections to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe.

Erie, PA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: This project will offer free home modifications to older adults, including installation of grab bars, handheld shower heads, lighting fixtures and window air conditioners.

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