Montevallo, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Montevallo had no commercial gym in town. To help residents -- including low-income families and older adults -- build healthy habits and reduce their risk for chronic diseases, the City installed fitness equipment in two of Montevallo's most popular public parks. The project is part of larger plans to redesign George Daily Park to be Montevallo's first ADA-accessible park. The other site -- Orr Park -- is located next door to the community's senior center. Equipment includes an ab crunch and leg lift apparatus, steps, ladder bars, pull up and push up bars and a hand cycle machine.

Fort Wayne, IN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Bridge of Grace Ministries set out to make the underserved Mount Vernon Park neighborhood safe, walkable and accessible for all. Their effort included physical improvements, including updated landscaping, new porch swings and banners promoting their work. They also conducted a storytelling project, inviting Mount Vernon Park residents to gather and share their personal histories and experiences. Volunteers videotaped the event and featured the stories on YouTube. Participants in the storytelling events reported a profound sense of connection with neighbors and the community.

Dayton, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: CityWide transformed a vacant lot into a new, more inviting entrance to Welcome Park in Dayton's Carillon neighborhood. The organization cleared overgrowth and dead trees from the site, replaced fencing and installed new informational signs. To give visitors a spot to rest, they placed benches along the park's walking path. CityWide also widened the entrance to conform to Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility standards. Throughout the project, CityWide gathered feedback and ideas from residents. A community-led branding effort informed the design of the park's new sign, as well as a dedication plaque honoring a local advocate. Project organizers say they hope this project serves as a model for meaningful community engagement as the community plans for future park improvements.