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City of Charleston (2019) Print
2019 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Park enhancements
└ Park enhancements
To make its underused East End Community Park more inviting, the City of Charleston added a splash pad, playground equipment and new greenery. First, the City held a community clean up day, where volunteers helped prepare the site. Then the City installed new equipment, including a swing set, two ski walker gliders and a water umbrella for the splash pad. The City also planted trees to shade the park's walking path and improve its overall appearance. In addition, they added lighting to improve park safety by illuminating the walking path, the community garden and other areas. Since these changes, project organizers report more families are using the park and neighbors are chipping in to keep the area free of litter.
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Naknek, AK
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Project Category: Park enhancements
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Holy Cross, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: In a very rural community with no nearby recreation options, many older adults lacked a free, low-impact way to stay active without traveling long distances. The Committee led a volunteer-driven renovation of an aging tennis court and added accessible pickleball courts with seating. Residents worked side by side to complete the project, turning construction days into a shared community effort. The courts were used daily once completed, with volunteers seeing grandparents playing pickleball with grandchildren and visitors being directed to the courts by family members. By creating a no-cost activity close to home, the project encouraged regular movement, strengthened social ties and reestablished the park as a central gathering place older adults can rely on.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Grafton, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Grafton lacked inclusive spaces that encourage social connection and mental engagement for older adults. The city installed Harmony Garden, an interactive musical park featuring 15 instrument structures, benches and landscaping along a four-mile bike path. Volunteers added trees, perennials and recycled mulch to create a welcoming environment. The park now offers free access to music-based sensory therapy and a unique spot for older adults to rest and interact. Plans include adding a butterfly sculpture and hosting community events to deepen its role as a gathering place.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
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Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Charleston, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project upgraded Charleston's East End Dog Park to make it usable for pet owners of all ages. The City planted trees, installed shade structures and added seating. They also made repairs to the park's water source and planted grass. In addition, City workers fenced off a section of the dog park specifically for smaller dogs, keeping them separate from larger breeds that can intimidate them.
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