See More Projects Like This One

Camden, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: To replace dilapidated seating options in Camden's historic downtown, Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center organized the Sharing Our Stories One Bench at a Time project. The effort involved purchasing, decorating and installing 11 mosaic benches around the Wilcox County Courthouse. Led by local mosaic artist Linda Munoz, residents aged 4 to 80 shared their stories, came up with themes and designs and cut and laid colorful glass onto concrete seats. The benches -- which feature imagery related to life in Camden -- represent more than just a beautiful place to sit. Project organizers say the new benches brought the community together and strengthened Camden's sense of civic pride.

Freeport, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: This project set out to enhance a public space in Freeport, giving residents of all ages an appealing place to gather. Organizers worked to identify a space to install a mural, painted by a local artist.

Los Angeles, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: The Thai Community Development Center sought to beautify Thailand Plaza, a commercial center along Hollywood Boulevard in Thai Town. The more than 1,000 square feet of metal garage doors making up the plaza's faade were a target for graffiti. To solve this, the Center commissioned two artists to replace the tags with vibrant murals illustrating Thai culture. They also repainted the gates of the nearby Brahmin Shrine in deep black and gold. By doing this, project organizers hope to deter future vandalism in the area, inspire a sense of community and draw new visitors to Thai Town. Locals hailed the project during a celebration marking the district's 20th anniversary.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Wilmington, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Digital Connectivity for Disasters

Description: This project will provide training on preparing for disasters and distribute preparedness kits to participants. The initiative will also outfit a mobile emergency disaster unit with solar-powered satellite internet access and portable charging units.

Wilmington, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: The project will support Open Streets events by closing streets to vehicle traffic, creating safe spaces for residents of all ages to move freely and advocating for permanent improvements to the city's streets.

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