Albany, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: Speeding traffic along roads bordering Mennonite Village created safety concerns for older adults walking, biking or using mobility devices. A police-led speed study showed most vehicles exceeded the speed limit, discouraging residents from moving confidently through the neighborhood. Mennonite Village installed two radar speed signs that provide real-time feedback to drivers and reinforce slower speeds. After installation, average vehicle speeds dropped by more than 10 miles per hour, reducing immediate risk for older adults. The signs remain as a long-term traffic-calming tool, while resident involvement strengthened engagement in local street safety.

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

Lane County, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Vida McKenzie Community Center rebuilt its role as a community hub by installing an advanced AV system with a Hearing Loop. This upgrade removed barriers for residents with hearing loss, allowing older adults to fully participate in events like concerts, workshops and social gatherings. Public classes will teach users how to connect their hearing aids to the system, ensuring long-term accessibility. One attendee shared, "The sound quality in the new Vida McKenzie Community System is amazing. It made it possible for me to fully engage in last Saturday's workshop."

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