East Providence, RI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The City of East Providence set out to support intergenerational activities in a dense residential neighborhood. To achieve this, they made improvements to a park frequented by residents of all ages. The City installed benches, ADA-accessible picnic tables and game tables in Central Avenue Park. The improvements allow grandparents to sit and watch their grandchildren play in the park's splash pad, older adults to engage youth in a game of checkers or chess and families to enjoy a picnic together. Organizers say the project helped East Providence realize the final elements of their recently completed parks master plan.

Dallas, TX

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: As part of renovations to make the West Dallas Multipurpose Center accessible for people of all ages and abilities, the City of Dallas set out to improve a walking path on the center's grounds. A key goal: give older adults opportunities to exercise and spend time with their grandchildren. To achieve this, the city installed five ADA-compliant benches along the path, which runs alongside a playground. Project organizers say the benches increase walkability at the center, which offers Dallas residents social services, child care and other resources. The benches give visitors a place to rest as they stroll the walking path or supervise children as they play.

Seattle, WA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Pickleball's surge in Seattle left many lined courts without nets, limiting access for older adults who relied on the sport for fitness and social connection. To address this, the association installed five semi-permanent nets at three sites, including lighted courts for evening play, and organized free clinics for beginners and women-only sessions. These efforts transformed neglected spaces into active hubs, prompting community funding to add more nets and complete two major centers. Today, residents enjoy year-round play and multigenerational gatherings. As one participant shared, "The laughter and smiles brought from engaging pickleball in safe communities was heartwarming."

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.