Gulfport, MS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Public place improvements to withstand extreme weather events

Description: After Hurricane Katrina nearly leveled the Bayou View West neighborhood in 2005, the Federal Emergency Management Agency bought out the remaining residents and handed the property over to the city. Today, the 40-acre tract is known as Brickyard Bayou Park. This project created the city's first dog park at the site. Known as the Bark Park, it attracted more than 200 people and dogs on its opening day in 2017. the space acts as a buffer -- if the area floods again, homes won't be at risk. And once the park dries out, people and pups can return. Since the Bark Park's creation, the City of Gulfport has added a kayak launch, a disc golf course, a nature trail and an outdoor classroom to Brickyard Bayou Park.

Davenport, OK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public place improvements to withstand extreme weather events

Description: Frequent power outages in Davenport left older adults without power for medical devices, creating serious health risks in a rural area where generators are scarce and costly. To address this, the town distributed portable generators, grounded extension cords and carbon monoxide detectors to 21 households, prioritizing those with medical needs. The effort reduced weather-related emergencies and helped residents age in place more safely. One recipient, an older adult living alone with mobility challenges, said receiving a generator gave her peace of mind and independence during outages.

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

Richwood, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public place improvements to withstand extreme weather events

Description: This project will equip the Richwood Community Center with a 60-KW generator to provide emergency power during disasters. This will ensure the center can serve as a safe shelter for residents.