St. John, VI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: This project will upgrade the St. Ursula's Mission kitchen, which was damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, to support St. John Meals on Wheels and aid disaster recovery. Improvements will ensure ongoing service for older adults and other residents.

St. Thomas, VI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: The Virgin Islands Council on the Arts commissioned local artists -- all of whom were older adults -- to create four murals at a local recreational complex. Intended to extend the Yacht Haven Public Arts Initiative into more neighborhoods, the new murals focus on Virgin Islanders' heritage and history. Subject matter includes an ocean vista with sail boats, a scene from everyday Island life and an homage to local athletes. Project organizers say they hope the new public art instills a sense of neighborhood identity and adds color to walls that would otherwise go unnoticed.