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City of Graettinger (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Park enhancements
└ Park enhancements
Graettinger lacked safe, low-impact fitness options for older adults in its rural community. To address this, the city installed two pickleball courts with fencing, nets and benches, and added a paved sidewalk linking the courts to the playground and walking trail. Volunteers cleared the site, and older adults began hosting daily meetups to teach pickleball. These improvements created a social hub and accessible exercise space, helping residents stay active and connected with family and neighbors for years to come.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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See More Projects Like This One
Manchester, NH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Part of larger efforts to draw people to spend time in downtown Manchester, this project made placemaking improvements to Arms Park. Manchester Connects engaged a local company to design custom chairs for the space, which can gently rock. Additionally, they installed picnic tables, benches and a concrete cornhole set in the park. The park -- located on the banks of the Merrimack River -- is a historic place in the city's core. Organizers hope the new amenities help the park act as a third space -- a public place people can gather without having to spend money.
Auburn, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Heritage Park lost its aging gazebo, leaving Auburn without a central space for gatherings. The city built a new ADA-compliant gazebo with benches, LED lighting and a chandelier, creating a versatile spot for celebrations. Volunteers, including many older adults, painted and stained the structure, reinforcing community pride. The gazebo now hosts birthdays, weddings and seasonal events like Christmas lighting, restoring a focal point for social life. One resident said "This is a wonderful addition to the park and the entire town. Can't wait to see all the events that will happen." Plans for an ADA bathroom and a pickleball court show continued investment in age-friendly amenities.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Mannington, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Many older adults in Mannington lacked affordable ways to stay active, with gyms and equipment out of reach for those on fixed incomes. The center installed outdoor fitness stations along a popular trail, adding options for strength and flexibility exercises in a safe, accessible setting. The project boosted motivation and social connection, helping residents improve balance and mobility. It also sparked plans to expand wellness programming and add equipment at the center, reinforcing a long-term commitment to healthy aging in the community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Estherville, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: To improve its recreation facilities, the City of Estherville asked residents for their ideas about how to improve local outdoor spaces. In response to this feedback, the City added special playground swings at the community's parks that are suitable for users of various skills, sizes and ages. The generation swings are two swings in one -- a combined adult swing and a swing for babies and toddlers. This enables children to swing face-to-face with their adult.
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