AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Providence, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Community Libraries of Providence addressed a safety gap that kept some neighbors from participating in outdoor library programs. At Knight Memorial Library, the ramp and stairs leading to the lawn lacked secure handrails, making access stressful for older adults using canes, walkers or wheelchairs. The project installed new handrails along both sides of the accessible ramp and repaired the handrail on the street staircase, building on earlier accessibility improvements. A patron wrote that she had stopped attending evening Spanish classes because she was afraid of the stairs. The improvements reopened outdoor programs to neighbors with limited mobility and advanced the library's longer-term accessibility goals.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Maricopa County, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Outdated technology threatened the audio service that thousands of older adults rely on for news, health information and election details. Sun Sounds upgraded six recording booths and a Master Control computer, giving volunteer readers, many age 50-plus, the tools to produce clearer, more efficient programming. The improvements ensure uninterrupted access to vital information for listeners statewide. One listener said the service made it possible to be an informed voter and stay connected through programs on health, hobbies and local news. Plans are underway to extend upgrades to other stations.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Hastings, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Older adults and visitors using mobility devices often waited outside historic buildings because portable ramps were impractical during events. To improve access, the park installed an ADA-compliant sidewalk linking five buildings and hosted a ribbon-cutting with volunteers assisting in landscaping. The change replaced temporary ramps with permanent access and sparked momentum for additional projects, including a village-wide walking system. One retired teacher said, "It was a joy to be able to tour with the Commission on Aging. The ramps were wonderful."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Minneapolis, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Accessory dwelling units, tiny homes and manufactured housing
Description: Minneapolis faces a housing affordability crisis, leaving older adults and others with few options. Mill City Church launched IMBY to showcase accessory dwelling units as a solution, hosting two demonstration events, furnishing a model unit for immersive experiences and producing a short documentary. The effort raised awareness and mobilized advocates to consider ADUs for housing diversity. "We didn't really think about our backyard in terms of being a potential solution... but now we're considering building an ADU and being a part of the solution," said one participant.
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.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Minnesota State Office
1919 University Avenue
Suite 500
St. Paul, MN 55104
United States