Fort Collins, CO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Innovative home maintenance repair and services

Description: Residents in mobile home parks and apartments often faced small plumbing problems that could quickly threaten home safety and strain fixed incomes. Many older adults lacked practical guidance or affordable tools, making it harder to age in place. The City of Fort Collins responded by hosting hands-on plumbing and water conservation workshops and larger resource fairs where residents practiced clearing clogs, checking for leaks and using shutoff valves alongside experts. Participants received take-home supplies and connected with city staff and service providers for follow-up help. Many reported feeling confident enough to fix problems they had delayed for months, and some completed repairs within days. Feedback also revealed gaps in emergency shutoff access, which prompted the city to plan new plumbing assistance. The project strengthened residents ability to stay safe, reduce costs and support one another at home.

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