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Waukegan, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older residents in Lake County lacked devices and digital skills, leaving them unable to access health resources or stay connected. To close this gap, the organization distributed 123 laptops and provided at least 12 hours of hands-on training in familiar community spaces, supported by printed guides for continued learning. Participants reported feeling less isolated, with 80% using new skills to connect with family and 25% accessing health resources. One attendee shared, "I was scared of technology... now I feel young again," reflecting the program's impact on confidence and independence.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Portland, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults face barriers to using computers and the internet, limiting access to housing searches, job applications and everyday communication. Friendly House expanded shared computer access and offered hands-on technical help so residents could complete essential online tasks with support. The project added equipment to a community internet center, hosted digital skills classes and provided drop-in, one-on-one assistance. That personalized approach mattered. One participant said the tech helper was very patient and helpful, easing anxiety about asking for assistance. By reducing practical and emotional barriers to technology, the project strengthened ongoing capacity at the center. This helped older adults stay connected to resources, services and relationships that reduce isolation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nashville, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in North Nashville faced digital barriers that limited access to health care, financial tools and social connection. The YMCA launched a Digital Connectivity Pilot with 23 computer lab sessions staffed by local HBCU students. It also hosted three Lunch and Learn workshops on telehealth, estate planning and financial literacy. These efforts helped participants gain confidence using technology. One member said the program's telehealth training made them less scared to seek care remotely. Others learned to prevent scams and manage retirement accounts. The YMCA plans to expand this model across its six-county service area.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Blue Hill, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Trails
Description: This project set out to create age-friendly trails in Blue Hill. Efforts included constructing an accessible walking path and installing benches along it to give older adults and people with mobility challenges a place to rest. Part of the town's larger Connectivity Plan, organizers hoped the trails would encourage intergenerational activities and give residents opportunities for physical activity. The route runs through Blue Hill's downtown, allowing people to walk to local amenities and shops.
Blue Hill, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: To showcase practical, affordable devices that can help older adults remain independent in their homes, Healthy Peninsula put together its Traveling Tool Table display. The tool table features 42 items, including a telephone with picture display, a smoke detector with a strobe light, no-tie elastic shoelaces and a seat cushion that helps a person rise from a chair. The exhibit traveled to five area libraries, where visitors were able to try out the tools and ask local experts questions. Healthy Peninsula designed the exhibit to be lent to other organizations, such as community centers, and featured at events, such as health expos.
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