Hagerstown, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Washington County Commission on Aging purchased and outfitted a trailer to operate as a mobile office. Commission staff deployed the trailer at drive-through vaccination events. That way, older adults seeking vaccinations could drive to the trailer's location, then complete their required paperwork without leaving their personal vehicles. During the first three months of 2021, the Commission held 12 events, vaccinating 670 people. Since the vaccination drives, the Commission has used the trailer for other mobile services. During tax season, it provided a space to coordinate tax document drop off and pick up.

Fort Collins, CO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: Many older adult residents in Fort Collins' two manufactured housing communities lack access to basic resources, such as fresh food, medical care and community connections. These challenges are especially difficult in the winter months when health complications tend to be exacerbated. The City of Fort Collins, in collaboration with local partner organizations, hosted two MCH WELL events for residents of the parks. These events connected older adults with community supports and organizations, social services, weatherization equipment and handyman assistance for their homes, as well as fresh produce and health services, such as COVID-19 vaccines and blood pressure checks. This helped residents lower their utility bills, avoid fines and fees from code violations and improve their physical and mental health.

Lansing, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: Older adults in Lansing faced high costs and limited options for fitness, leaving many without access to health programs. Lansing Parks launched a low-cost monthly membership giving people unlimited access to 36 classes across four centers including Tai Chi and Enhanced Fitness. The program enrolled 69 participants and boosted social connections. One participant noted that she has been feeling and looking better since starting the class. Plans include adding more classes and sustaining the model to keep older adults active and engaged.