Perry, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Taylor County Emergency Management focused on a rural community where many residents age 50 and over with special needs were not clearly identified in emergency plans. That gap increased the risk that vulnerable people could be missed during evacuations or sheltering. The agency created a special needs registry and paired it with targeted outreach through community events, visits to local gathering places and local media. Residents received clear guidance on preparedness, registration and available support, along with printed checklists and planning materials. Partnerships with emergency services, health providers and nonprofits improved coordination. The registry grew by more than 30%, giving responders clearer insight into who may need help and when. The effort strengthened readiness and helped older adults feel more secure knowing they are visible in local emergency response plans.

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.

Frederiksted, VI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Older adults in Frederiksted face serious risks during hurricanes, especially when managing medications, medical equipment and evacuation decisions. Tradewind Foundation addressed that gap by hosting hands-on disaster preparedness training sessions focused on practical steps residents could take before storms hit. Participants learned how to build emergency plans, organize supplies, protect medications and communicate with family and caregivers. Preparedness resources were also distributed for continued use at home. One participant said the training replaced uncertainty with a clear plan for handling medical needs during hurricane season. By improving household readiness and confidence, the project helped older adults feel safer staying in their homes during future emergencies.

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