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Dwelling Place (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
Long Michigan winters left older adults at Reflections Apartments isolated and unable to garden, a key source of connection and activity. Dwelling Place built an ADA-compliant greenhouse through five volunteer events, engaging many community members and local partners. The space extends the growing season and supports a seed-starting program led by residents. Older adults now plan to grow culturally relevant vegetables and share stories tied to gardening traditions, turning the greenhouse into a year-round hub for wellness and social connection.
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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New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: This project created a community garden with twenty raised-bed garden boxes. Dillard University Community Relations also held six healthy-cooking demonstrations and four health fairs.
Norwalk, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Key walkways and work areas will be leveled and upgraded across Fairgate Farm. These changes will reduce fall risk and allow older volunteers to garden safely.
Pablo, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: On the Flathead Reservation, many older adults face food insecurity and chronic health issues tied to poor nutrition. The project installed eight gardening boxes, purchased lumber for 20 more and provided seeds and soil. Volunteers built boxes and planted vegetables, creating spaces for growing food and teaching traditional preservation. The garden now supplies fresh produce to older adult meal programs and homebound older adults, improving nutrition and reducing isolation. "I was able to plant my salad vegetables with my grandchildren... They enjoyed watering, picking and tasting what we grew," one resident said.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Grand Rapids, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: The project will cover the expense of urgent repairs in mobile homes for older adults, including heating, plumbing and accessibility upgrades. This support will help residents avoid unsafe conditions and remain in stable, affordable housing.
Grand Rapids, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Disaster Preparedness
Description: Community leaders will be trained to deliver ongoing disaster preparedness education. Adults age 50 and older will receive planning tools and supplies.
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