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Delaware Nation of Oklahoma (2019) Print
2019 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
Delaware Nation created an accessible community garden in an area designated as a food desert. Residents of all ages use the garden to plant and harvest fresh fruits and vegetables. The garden includes 25 raised beds, constructed at different heights to accommodate older adults and people with mobility differences. Two beds are specifically designated for growing native plants. Delaware Nation also purchased gardening tools, including wheelbarrows, trellises, garden hoses, an irrigation system and reusable frost blankets. Much of the produce grown onsite is used in meals prepared for the tribe's older members. Tables, shade umbrellas and a charcoal grill allow tribal members to gather and enjoy produce from the garden together.
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Tacoma, WA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The community garden will add drip irrigation and ADA accessible seating. These upgrades will improve access for older gardeners, conserve water and increase the amount of fresh food for the local food pantry.
Birmingham, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: This project expanded community garden facilities by renovating an existing trailer to provide restrooms, an office and a classroom/meeting space. The upgrades provide indoor space where Bush Hills Connections can host gardening classes. The garden also received new pet waste stations and hand and equipment sanitation stations. The garden -- once an abandoned school property -- is located within a food desert and provides fresh produce to 200 families. Additionally, it is a popular meeting place, particularly with older adults.
Clarksville, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Rapid growth and shrinking lot sizes left many residents without space or knowledge to grow food, while obesity and inactivity rates underscored the need for healthy, social activities. The county converted a 7,500-square-foot plot into an ADA-accessible community garden with raised beds, tools and a shed. It hosted volunteer events in the new space to teach planting and food preparation. The garden now serves as an educational hub where families and older adults learn sustainable gardening and share meals. Partnerships with schools and master gardeners will sustain events and programs. "This project has shown me the energy and will of the community," said one organizer, reflecting its role in reducing isolation and fostering connection.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
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Carnegie, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Housing Design Competitions
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