Tucson, AZ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: Older adults with disabilities in Southern Arizona faced barriers to exercise and recreation, limiting opportunities for health and social connection. To address this, the organization launched the Eduardo Aguirre Adaptive Cycling Center, installing storage containers and creating a wheelchair-accessible site with a fleet of adaptive bikes. More than 300 people, including 200 age 50-plus, have used the center for rides and training. Participants report renewed confidence and joy. One woman, age 72, said she now feels supported and can ride with friends again.

Augusta, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: Augusta's limited transit options leave older adults with few safe ways to reach essential services. Move Augusta addressed this by hosting a Senior Bicycle Safety Rodeo and training 23 participants in bike and pedestrian safety. It donated 10 three-wheeled tricycles with helmets and locks to adult centers and other community facilities. The event connected 20 local agencies and volunteers to support older adults and sparked plans for a ride-share program. "Seeing the younger volunteers interact with the older participants was a blessing and a joy to watch," said an organizer. These efforts are helping older residents travel safely for groceries, medical appointments and recreation.

Lincoln, NE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: Older adults in Lincoln faced barriers to bike share, from safety concerns to cost and lack of education. BikeLNK addressed these challenges through its Bike Share for All program, hosting four citywide events to teach bike share basics, demonstrate pedal-assist bikes and offer discounted memberships. The project also launched a Bike Share Ambassador program, training seven volunteers-most age 50-plus-to promote biking in their communities. These efforts expanded awareness and built a foundation for ongoing engagement. As one ambassador shared, "I encourage everyone to take advantage of the program... It's a wonderful opportunity for exercise and for the reduction of air pollution."