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Dennis Center for Active Living (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Dennis Center for Active Living added an accessible outdoor patio to address the lack of space for social activities, a need heightened by pandemic isolation. The project built a 20x20 concrete platform with a wheelchair-accessible ramp, installed benches and placed six raised garden beds. Volunteers helped assemble furniture and plant flowers. The patio now hosts picnics, gardening and intergenerational events. "The DCAL Garden Patio is icing on the cake," said the project director, noting it fulfills a long-held vision for an inviting, inclusive gathering place.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Woodbury, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
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Buffalo, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
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Bunkie, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older residents in Bunkie lacked walkable routes and green spaces, limiting opportunities for social connection and physical activity. The project introduced a historic walking tour with a wayfinding sign, pamphlets and a dedicated bench along the route. The tour promotes activity and community ties while building support for Complete Streets improvements. "I rarely came out and walk anymore but I'm excited to take the self-guided walking tour with my grandchildren now," said one participant.
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New Bedford, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Long stretches of Buttonwood Park's walkway lacked seating, making walks difficult for older adults and discouraged activity. Friends of Buttonwood Park installed eight benches along the southern half of the park, added wheelchair-accessible slab extensions and created a brochure showing bench locations. The additions make walking easier and more enjoyable, promoting health and social interaction. Residents say the benches let them rest, relax and stay active in the park.
Bridgewater, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: After the pandemic heightened isolation, the town lacked an accessible outdoor space for older adults to gather and garden. The Senior Center installed ADA-compliant raised beds and developed a master plan to organize the area, informed by listening sessions with residents and local leaders. The project is paving the way for intergenerational gardening programs and a Garden Club, aiming to reduce loneliness and foster inclusion while creating a vibrant community hub.
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