See More Projects Like This One

Wheatland, WY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: As fewer and fewer residents took up the game, the horseshoe pits in Lewis Park went largely unused. The Town of Wheatland hoped to turn the pits into a more useful space fitting residents' modern tastes. So the Town converted them into pickleball courts. The Town staff worked with volunteers to clear and resurface the space, then install nets, posts, and fencing. To raise money for further improvements -- including seating for spectators -- the Town hosted a fundraising charity onsite. Project organizers say the new courts give people of all ages an option for outdoor exercise. Pickleball is popular with older adults since the fast-paced game is low impact and easy on joints.

Mission, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The Rosebud Reservation's Kimmel Park had a bad reputation in the community, and the site badly needed maintenance. To give the space new life, the City of Mission partnered with local tribal locations to update park amenities. They installed a new playground with accessibility features, including ADA-complaint picnic tables, rubber mulch, benches and a ramp. Organizers say they hope the park becomes a welcoming space for tribal elders to visit with their grandchildren. Today, members of the community chip in to keep the park clean. And the City plans to continue making upgrades to Kimmel Park, including reopening a closed swimming pool.

Casper, WY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Casper lacked a memorial honoring Wyoming residents who died in combat. The Legion built a tribute with engraved panels, granite benches, flagpoles, lighting and smooth concrete for wheelchair access. A dedication ceremony featured Gold Star families and community volunteers. One niece said she was "crying in gratitude" after finding her uncles' names, underscoring the memorial's emotional impact and its role as a lasting place for reflection.

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

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Elyria, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Older adults in Lorain County often lacked disaster preparedness resources and faced transportation barriers that made it hard to get emergency supplies. Neighborhood Alliance used its Mobile Seniors program to deliver customized preparedness kits directly to these residents, including essential items and guidance from the county emergency management agency. Community partners and volunteers added supplies, expanding the effort. The kits increased safety and confidence, and one recipient said, "For the first time, I feel like I have a plan..." The program also strengthened ongoing wellness checks and created a model that can continue through community support.

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

Fairview Park, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space improvements to increase highspeed internet

Description: City of Fairview Park addressed barriers to medical access for older adults who faced transportation challenges and limited comfort with digital tools. The local Senior Center created a private telemedicine station with reliable internet, computers and privacy features. This was paired with hands-on support from staff and volunteers to help residents understand virtual visits and use the technology with confidence. The station allowed older adults to connect with providers from a familiar setting, reducing travel and wait times while supporting ongoing digital literacy. Early use showed immediate value. One participant said after her first visit, "She was so happy to speak with her doctor without having to sit in a waiting room... the appointment time started exactly on time." The project strengthened the Senior Center's role as a long-term hub for digital health care access and support.

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

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