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.

Presidio, TX

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: This project installed barbecue grills, ADA-compliant picnic tables and park benches, exercise equipment and outdoor musical instruments at Daly Park.

St. 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.