Cimarron, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The City of Cimarron added a pickleball court to a park already used by residents for daily walks, responding to a lack of low impact recreation and places to linger. Older adults wanted more ways to stay active and social close to home, but the park offered few features that encouraged gathering. The new court was built alongside the walking path, giving residents options to play, watch games or stop and talk. As construction progressed, walkers followed the work closely, building interest and a sense of shared ownership before the court opened. Residents age 50 and over have embraced the court as a reason to move more and spend time with neighbors. The addition has helped the park function as a lively meeting place and aligns with broader city efforts to strengthen walkability and long term use of public spaces.

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

Louisville, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: In Louisville's California Neighborhood, decades of disinvestment left residents without safe green space. The project opened phase one of Alberta O. Jones Park, adding fitness stations designed for all ages, especially older adults. Residents helped select equipment, and a ribbon-cutting drew more than 200 people. The park now offers a walkable destination that encourages physical activity and social interaction in one of the city's most underserved neighborhoods, creating a model for community-driven park leadership.

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

New Orleans, LA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: In New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward, many residents lack access to public outdoor spaces. To provide additional recreational areas and bolster intergenerational connections for residents, the Sankofa Community Development Corporation improved Sankofa Wetland Park and Nature Trail, clearing overgrown grass, fallen trees and other obstructions from the water's edge. Project organizers also installed benches and bike racks and bought new fishing equipment for visitors to use in the park. Fishing has great cultural significance to the residents of this neighborhood and provides a way for elders to bond with and mentor local youth.