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Blue Hill, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults on the Blue Hill Peninsula face growing barriers as essential services, communication and information move online. In this rural area, limited access to devices, internet service and hands-on support has left many older adults isolated and unsure how to use technology safely. Down East Family YMCA addressed this gap by launching the Tech Cafe, a weekly, in-person space offering digital skills help, device troubleshooting and online safety guidance. More than 45 participants, nearly all age 50-plus, received one-on-one assistance using computers and tablets with support from digital navigators, peer mentors and volunteers. One socially isolated older adult began attending regularly after receiving help with a tablet, becoming more comfortable spending time in the community. The Tech Cafe now serves as an ongoing digital hub, expanding access to devices and connectivity while helping older adults build confidence and stay engaged.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Bend, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Central Oregon faced a widening digital divide, leaving them unable to access health care or manage daily tasks. The Computer Literacy Program offered classes and tutoring across multiple locations, enrolling 96 participants, more than half of whom were age 50-plus. It taught skills from device basics to advanced applications. Volunteers, all older adults, created a peer-learning environment that built confidence and independence. One instructor noted, "They have all become very good friends and enjoy taking the classes together," showing how the program strengthened community ties.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Washington, DC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Mobile laptops and tablets will expand digital access to homeless older adults within a community center. Flexible technology will help older adults navigate services and reduce isolation.
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Hilo, HI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Description: Like in many communities around the country, older adults in Hilo were particularly isolated during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. To help older adults connect with friends and neighbors, the East Hawai'i Cultural Center created an outdoor mobile stage. The modular stage hosted free and low-cost theatre, dance, music, hula, poetry performances and lectures at venues throughout the community, including several at two senior centers.
Honokaa, HI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: Food insecurity surged in rural Honokaa during the pandemic, leaving many older adults isolated and struggling to afford groceries. The project repaired the temple's kitchen roof, upgraded electrical circuits and added a three-door refrigerator, enabling safe storage and preparation of more than 25,000 meals annually. These improvements strengthened a program now serving over 500 weekly meals and grocery bags and paved the way for intergenerational cooking classes that teach economical meal planning. The upgrades also position the temple as a backup emergency shelter during disasters.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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