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Community Health Development Foundation (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
In rural Nevada, many older adults struggled with isolation and limited digital access, leaving them cut off from family and health care providers. To bridge this divide, the foundation installed laptops and tablets at centers in Wells and Carlin. It recruited local high school students to teach older residents how to use email, video calls and the internet safely. The sessions drew growing interest, with many reporting newfound confidence and eagerness to keep learning. The project not only built digital skills but also lasting connections between generations and within the community. One participant, after learning to use video chat for the first time, tearfully said she was "so happy" to finally see her granddaughter again.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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El Dorado, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Union County's digital divide left many older adults without internet access or basic tech skills, limiting their ability to bank online or connect with family. SouthArk launched SouthArk Connections, hosting six classes on computer basics, cybersecurity and financial literacy, and provided laptops for use beyond class time. Specialized sessions supported veterans and people with disabilities. Participants gained confidence and reduced isolation, with partnerships ensuring ongoing classes and outreach. One attendee said, "This class has helped me feel more comfortable with computers...I'm so thankful for this class and our wonderful instructor."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Trenton, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: In rural Jones County, many older adults lacked internet access and digital skills, leaving them unable to schedule telemedicine visits or connect with family. To close this gap, the project created a digital literacy curriculum and hosted seven community events, including workshops and a graduation. Forty-five participants received laptops and personalized support through house calls. One couple, both dialysis patients, learned to book virtual appointments and now use video calls to stay in touch with loved ones. Plans to align with a national digital training program will expand training and establish a hub for advanced classes.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Reno, NV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Reno faced isolation and barriers to vital information because they lacked digital skills, compounded by transportation and language challenges. The city launched Senior Tech Connect classes in English and Spanish, teaching smartphone basics and advanced features like emergency contacts and medical IDs. Nearly 200 participants gained confidence, supported by bilingual volunteers and take-home materials. The program reduced isolation and boosted independence, prompting plans for expanded sessions. One participant said, "Before attending, my phone felt intimidating... now it's a tool I can enjoy," showing how digital literacy transformed daily life.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Winnemucca, NV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: A large community garden in one of Winnemucca's parks had fallen into disrepair. But organizers with Age- and Dementia-Friendly Winnemucca saw the space's potential and set out to revitalize the community space. Organizers wanted to make the garden accessible, allowing people with mobility issues to garden while seated, or simply observe others while they work. To achieve this, they installed hip-height raised garden beds onsite. Additionally, they laid down pavers to create smooth surface suitable for people using wheelchairs and walkers. New benches completed the transformation, giving visitors a comfortable space to rest. To ensure the garden remains well cared for, the age-friendly initiative also purchased a weedwhacker for the site, along with a drip irrigation system. Organizers say the project's success inspired local leaders to consider other ways to improve the park.
Winnemucca, NV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Part of larger efforts to develop a new park in Winnemucca's Whitworth Recreation Complex, the local age-friendly initiative County set out to provide residents with outdoor exercise options. They created a paved walking trail, which features exercise stations. Organizers prioritized accessibility, ensuring the path's surface was navigable for people using wheelchairs and walkers. Additionally, local organizations added seating and a bus stop onsite. Already home to a playground, splash pad and picnic area, the recreation center supports community health for residents of all ages.
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