Willmar, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Older adults and people with disabilities in rural Minnesota faced transportation barriers, limiting access to health care and community life. MMDC distributed 2,100 transit tokens and childcare passes, and introduced electric-assist tricycles at facilities to promote independence. These efforts reduced isolation, encouraged transit use and fostered intergenerational interaction. A project organizer noted that one resident has now been able to resume ridership and that she now enjoys a regained sense of independence. Stronger ties with with the community will guide future mobility planning.

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

Bainbridge Island, WA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Older adults on Bainbridge Island face limited transit options, making shopping and cultural outings difficult. The center piloted a transportation program, training a driver for its 22-passenger van and partnering with Island Volunteer Caregivers to provide 202 rides for excursions and shopping trips. Volunteers supported the effort, and participants confirmed these trips were a top priority. "These shopping trips have lifted my husband's whole spirits," said one participant. The program reduced isolation, improved mental health and set the stage for continued excursions as well as plans to add livery service for medical appointments.

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

Miami, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Residents of Miami's Little Havana neighborhood wanted to improve the transit experience for the area's older adults. To do this, Urban Health Partnerships installed a dozen single and double-seat benches under shade trees near high-ridership bus and trolley stops. Little Havana residents use public transit at three times the rate of Miami-Dade County's general populace. Organizers say the new benches provide a welcome place to rest as they walk through the community or wait for transit.