Aztec, NM

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Aztec lacked inclusive spaces for older adults to gather and reconnect after years of isolation. The Leanor was renovated with ADA features, indoor seating and outdoor upgrades including a pergola, firepit and six garden spaces for flowers and vegetables. Pop-up craft fairs and coffee gatherings brought residents together during renovations. The space now hosts storytelling, artisan markets and intergenerational programs, with older adults leading gardening and art activities. One organizer noted teens move furniture were eager to help and loved visiting with them, generating community engagement.

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

Newport, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Newport residents lacked outdoor space for gardening and socializing, especially older adults in nearby housing. To address this, the town converted an unused parcel into a community garden with fencing, ADA-compliant walkways and raised beds for 20 families. Volunteers helped prepare the site, creating a space where residents can grow food and flowers, connect with neighbors and enjoy the outdoors. Located near senior housing, the garden offers accessible opportunities for older adults and will host events and donate crops to local food programs.

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

Palmer, AK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project created raised gardening beds, designed to be accessible for gardeners who use wheelchairs. Volunteers constructed two dozen planter boxes and benches, which project organizers then set up in several locations, including at senior housing complexes community and senior centers, on a town main street and at a community garden. The project also created educational programming to teach older adult residents about adaptive and accessible gardening. Organizers say they hope maintaining the new planters will give people access to fresh food, as well as the opportunity to socialize.