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Liberty, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Low literacy rates and few enrichment activities left older adults in Casey County without ways to learn and connect. The library installed a StoryWalk along an accessible trail, featuring interactive story panels and hosting a ribbon-cutting event. Walking groups and families began using it for exercise and engagement, and stories rotate monthly. One participant said he that he thought the incorporation of sign language was very useful, and enjoyed learning and using it.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Avoca, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Avoca's Main Street already had green space and places to sit, but Avoca Public Library organizers wanted to give residents a reason to spend time downtown. To invite people in, they installed oversized, weather-proof musical instruments outside the library. Since the instruments don't require any training or talent to play, they are popular with residents of all ages. Part of the town's creative placemaking plans, the new music park is located near the site of Avoca's weekly summer farmer's market. "It's a fun part of the town now," Avoca resident Sunshine Schoeller said.
Clarkston, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Clarkston's only community center was unusable, leaving older adults without a safe space for activities in a city where language barriers and isolation are common. The organization renovated the center with new furniture and climate control, then launched crochet workshops pairing older adults with youth. It also spurred new Tai Chi and peace education classes. The permanent hub now hosts programs and resource drives, fostering intergenerational learning and cultural exchange. For residents age 50-plus, the center offers consistent programming and a nearby venue to stay active and connected.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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El Cajon, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: To help older adults in El Cajon's large Iraqi refugee community navigate the area's public transit system, Circulate San Diego created training materials in Arabic. Older adults in this community are more likely to suffer from PTSD and social isolation, with language and cultural barriers preventing many from comfortably leaving home. The training resources included a how-to video, as well as materials to help local high school students share information about transit basics with family members and neighbors. Circulate San Diego also created a transit map and brochures in Arabic. Project organizers say they hope the resources helps community members use transit as a mobility option -- and a way to regain independence.
San Diego, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Walkability
Description: Cracked and missing sidewalks in Webster Heights made walking unsafe for older adults and families. To address this, the organization led five walk audits with residents to document hazards and identify priority fixes. The effort united neighbors and produced detailed findings for curbs, gutters and sidewalks on key streets, plus plans for a traffic circle. "We could have a meet-and-greet and get more opinions to send to city council", one participant suggested, reflecting growing momentum for improvements and next steps that include funding applications and advocacy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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