La Crosse, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Cia Siab -- a nonprofit serving the local Hmoob community -- wanted to ensure its community center was accessible to people of all ages and abilities. But the stairs at the building's entrance posed a challenge to community elders who use wheelchairs, scooters or other mobility devices. To fix this, the City of La Crosse installed two ramps. The center offers programming to the community, including Hmoob language camp, women's circle and elders program. Access to the site is especially important for Hmong elders, who often struggle with depression, PTSD and social isolation due to their experiences of war, displacement and loss. Since installing the ramps, the City has looked for other community spaces that would benefit from accessibility upgrades.

Hazen, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: This project installed two chairlifts at the library, making the basement, where there is a meeting room, more accessible.

Duluth, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: The Center will improve the accessibility of a community garden by installing safe walkways, ramps, handrails and benches so community members can use the garden plots to grow healthy food, get exercise and host social events.