Littleton, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: In rural Littleton, winter weather and lack of transit often isolate older adults from civic life. The community center tackled this by installing high-speed internet, streaming equipment and a public laptop, along with safety upgrades and lightweight tables for easier setup. Residents can now join meetings and events online, reducing barriers for those unable to travel. The improvements also enhance security and convenience for groups using the historic building. A town official praised the new streaming service, saying it will "encourage more community engagement."

Detroit, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Lots in Detroit's Poletown neighborhood left older adults and neighbors without safe access to nature. The project installed an ADA-compliant boardwalk and gathering deck with seating. It was connected to accessible paths and created a focal point for the Circle Forest restoration. These improvements allow residents and care facility visitors to enjoy the outdoors and socialize. "Workers tell me how happy they are to get away and recharge during their shift," said a project lead, noting the space now draws neighbors daily.

Cokeville, WY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: To help visitors with disabilities access its programming, the Cokeville Senior Citizens Center made repairs to its buildings and grounds. To make the Center ADA-complaint, project organizers replaced dangerous, crumbling concrete, repaired a stairway, constructed a new sidewalk to the parking lot and replaced a deteriorated wooden deck. The Center also beautified its courtyard to accommodate outdoor gatherings, adding a barbeque area, new lighting, seating and planters to grow vegetables.