Baltimore, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Bringing resident insight and volunteer power into local government

Description: Organizers with the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service hoped to help Baltimore's older adults advocate for their housing, health and consumer needs. To do this, they hosted a series of trainings for older adults. The meetings allowed participants to share their lived experiences and strategize about how to achieve their advocacy goals and reach policymakers. Equipped with new skills, the residents then took part in a public hearing, testified before the Baltimore City Council and submitted public comments to proposed regulations. Through this engagement, raining participants made their voices heard on water affordability, reverse mortgages, tax sales and other issues.

Baltimore, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Developing projects based on residents' priorities

Description: As part of a smart cities initiative, the Office of Information and Technology developed an online tool to allow residents and businesses to access city services, such as applying for government services and paying taxes. Project organizers hope the tool will help city residents have an efficient experience when they engage with local government functions.