Anchorage, AK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Folker Park is a 2-acre urban forest located within the city of Anchorage. The park is adjacent to intergenerational living facilities and in the past was used by people of all ages. However, many of the park's volunteer caretakers have stopped routine maintenance, leaving many areas overgrown and essentially unusable. To improve the park, the Anchorage Park Foundation installed six outdoor musical instruments, a reflexology footpath, a healing maze and age-accessible fitness equipment. They also gathered volunteers to weed garden beds, pick up trash and plant flowers. Today, the park a central hub for the community once again, and a source of pride for residents.

Clear Lake, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Clear Lakes main park lacked safe seating and drinking water, making it hard for older adults to watch games comfortably. The project installed two ADA-compliant benches with shaded canopies and a chilled water bottle filling station at Lavin Field, along with signage and supporting infrastructure. These upgrades provide lasting amenities for hydration and secure seating, reducing fall risks and promoting wellness. A resident noted she could now enjoy practices without climbing bleachers. Future plans include ribbon-cutting events and exploring similar improvements at other parks.

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

Crooks, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The Town of Crooks set out to build a public space where residents could honor veterans and spend time outdoors in ways that worked for older adults and people with mobility challenges. As the park took shape, limited lighting and shelter made walking paths and gathering areas harder to use safely, especially in the evening. Crooks Veterans Park addressed these gaps by adding accent lighting along the walking path and installing a picnic shelter with electrical access. The lighting improved visibility and security after hours, while the shelter created a shaded place to sit, reflect and gather during visits and events. These upgrades expanded how and when residents could use the park and supported plans to make the trail fully accessible. Attendance at Veterans Day events continued to grow, reinforcing the park as a place veterans, older adults and families return to together.

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