AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Richmond, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: An eco-park lacked seating, signage and accessible paths, limiting older adults' ability to walk or join community programs. The seminary installed ADA-compliant picnic tables and benches, improved trails and added signage to create welcoming spaces. Volunteers helped assemble tables and supported intergenerational activities like a summer eco-camp. These upgrades removed barriers and encouraged social interaction. One group of longtime park users expressed gratitude for the new tables and benches, saying they finally had comfortable seating for daily gatherings.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Walcott, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Walcott's tennis courts had deteriorated since 1998, leaving few options for older adults to stay active in a town without fitness facilities. To address this, the city resurfaced one court and converted the other into two pickleball courts with fortified acrylic surfaces near a park and splash pad. The upgrades sparked interest in adult pickleball leagues and youth programs, creating a hub for social engagement and wellness. Residents say the new courts encourage active living and help older adults remain connected to the community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Corydon, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Permanent and portable shade structures will be added to the downtown farmers market. Cooler seating and vendor areas will help older adults shop and socialize more comfortably.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Monmouth, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older adults lacked outdoor spaces near the Senior Community Center, limiting social interaction and visibility in downtown life. The city tested two temporary alley designs with seating, tables, planters and lighting, hosting events like Tai Chi and art parties to gather feedback. The alley now serves as a lively gathering spot, fostering nintergenerational engagement and shaping a permanent plan that includes shaded seating and rotating art displays. One visitor said, "Love, love, love it! Makes me so happy to utilize otherwise empty space."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Independence, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Sunset Meadows Park lacked accessible play areas and seating, leaving older adults and families without safe spaces to gather. The city addressed this by installing nature play equipment, ADA swings, a hill slide and seating for small groups. It also added lighting and a safety surface for year-round use. Volunteers planted trees to add shade and improve water management. The upgrades created an active, age-friendly space that encourages outdoor activity and social connection while strengthening the city's park network. The Mayor said, "This park is a reminder of what we can accomplish together."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Oregon State Office
9200 SE Sunnybrook Boulevard
Suite 410
Clackamas (Portland), OR 97015
United States