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City of Hammond (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Morrison Alley's pocket park had become overgrown and nearly unusable, leaving older adults and visitors without a safe, welcoming space downtown. The city cleared the area, added five tables including an ADA-accessible option, installed dwarf azaleas and mulch to protect the park's Live Oak and placed waste receptacles to keep it clean. Within hours of installation, residents were gathering for lunch and conversation. "I love it!" one visitor said, reflecting broad enthusiasm for the transformation. The city plans further ADA upgrades, ensuring the park remains a vibrant hub for community connection.
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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Bronx, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Fordham University's Center for Community Engaged Learning transformed a vacant lot in Highbridge into a weekly farmers market, tackling limited access to fresh food and services for older adults. The market offered locally grown produce, cooking demonstrations and resource tables, with seating added for comfort. It accepted multiple payment options, including assistance programs, and fostered intergenerational connections. During cooking demos, participants shared recipes and memories, with one noting the exchange "was a beautiful way to build community."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
South Bend, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Many older adults in South Bend have trouble connecting with their peers to engage in meaningful conversation. South Bend Heritage develops affordable housing for older adults and provides supportive services to facilitate aging in place. The organization transformed an alley that connects one of its apartment buildings to South Bend's downtown. The alley now features benches, picnic tables, lighting and grills. Since the improvements, the space hosts monthly events to encourage apartment residents and the wider community to gather and socialize.
Youngstown, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Boulevard Park Block Watch Residents lacked a nearby public space to rest and connect, leaving older adults isolated in a dense neighborhood. The group transformed two vacant lots into a pocket park with benches, porch swings, picnic tables and plantings, plus a solar-lit flagpole and ADA-compliant features. The park now offers a secure, walkable space for socializing and exercise. "Neighbors with mobility issues were seen daily walking the 260-foot cement pathway," organizers noted, highlighting its role in fostering connection close to home.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Baton Rouge, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Improved wayfinding
Description: Scotlandville Parkway's 3-mile trail lacked clear signage and cultural identity, limiting its use for active transportation. BREC added wayfinding signs and installed public art honoring Southern University's role in the community. Volunteers helped paint connectors for the art walk, making the trail more inviting. The improvements encourage walking and biking in a neighborhood where 40% live below poverty and many lack cars. "I've lived here all my life and never knew this trail connected here!" said one resident.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Metairie, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: The organization will offer bilingual workshops on digital skills. Participants will gain tools to navigate online services and connect to local resources.
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