See More Projects Like This One

Saint Paul, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: After a survey of North End residents revealed a need for additional seating in the Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary, the District 6 Planning Council installed benches along the site's accessible walkways. A local artist designed each bench to depict colorful animals, including a blue and orange turtle, a bright orange otter, a red rabbit and a yellow and green frog. Project organizers say they hope to give visitors a place to rest, enjoy the outdoors and make social connections.

Cosmopolis, WA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Highland Park had fallen into disrepair, leaving older adults without a safe place to gather or exercise. The project transformed the park with paved walkways and parking, a covered communal area with ADA ramps, and new benches and picnic tables. It added an accessible playground, fitness stations and a pickleball/basketball court designed for all ages. The revitalized park now hosts events that foster connection. One longtime resident said, "I just love this park... I have never seen so many people using it."

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

Dayton, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: CityWide transformed a vacant lot into a new, more inviting entrance to Welcome Park in Dayton's Carillon neighborhood. The organization cleared overgrowth and dead trees from the site, replaced fencing and installed new informational signs. To give visitors a spot to rest, they placed benches along the park's walking path. CityWide also widened the entrance to conform to Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility standards. Throughout the project, CityWide gathered feedback and ideas from residents. A community-led branding effort informed the design of the park's new sign, as well as a dedication plaque honoring a local advocate. Project organizers say they hope this project serves as a model for meaningful community engagement as the community plans for future park improvements.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Birmingham, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Transportation Other

Description: ClasTran set out to address a familiar challenge for older adults who used public transportation for grocery trips but could carry only what fit in their laps. Many riders made multiple trips because they could not safely manage heavier bags. The project placed collapsible carts on vehicles so groceries could be stored securely without strain. Staff training ensured carts were used safely and riders learned they could bring home more food in one trip. Older adults reported that errands felt less tiring and that they could shop more confidently. ClasTran will keep the carts available, monitor their use and share reminders so riders know the option remains part of regular service.

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

Birmingham, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: An asphalt accessibility path will connect the Japanese Tea House to the wider garden network. The improvement will support mobility access while reducing erosion and maintenance needs.

LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED

Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages

people icon

Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities

download icon

Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter

mail icon

Don't see your community listed?

LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORK

Connect with your AARP State Office

AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

AARP Alabama State Office

400 South Union St.
Suite 100
Montgomery, AL 36104
United States

Phone: 866-542-8167
Fax: 334-954-3050
Email: [email protected]