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Eden Gardens Block Club (2018) Print
2018 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
To give older adults a space where they can interact with local children, Eden Gardens Block Club converted two vacant lots into an intergenerational playground. Ahead of the project, the Edens Garden surveyed residents about their preferences, with 80 percent of respondents asking for exercise equipment for older adults. Volunteers then worked to clear the site and install playground apparatuses, including swings, a see-saw bouncer and a cardio walker. Organizers say the space is now a source of community pride for the community.
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Eldridge, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The project addressed the lack of a safe place for exercise and social interaction, especially for older adults who previously walked along busy highways or stayed inactive due to limited options. It created a welcoming outdoor area with a covered gathering space, playground equipment and seating, along with added features that encouraged grandparents and families to spend time together. The improvements strengthened community ties and provided a reliable place for residents to meet and reconnect. As one resident said, "Having this new space in our community is wonderful... I get to sit in the swing and read a book or visit with a neighbor."
Bronx, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Fordham University's Center for Community Engaged Learning transformed a vacant lot in Highbridge into a weekly farmers market, tackling limited access to fresh food and services for older adults. The market offered locally grown produce, cooking demonstrations and resource tables, with seating added for comfort. It accepted multiple payment options, including assistance programs, and fostered intergenerational connections. During cooking demos, participants shared recipes and memories, with one noting the exchange "was a beautiful way to build community."
Hammond, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Morrison Alley's pocket park had become overgrown and nearly unusable, leaving older adults and visitors without a safe, welcoming space downtown. The city cleared the area, added five tables including an ADA-accessible option, installed dwarf azaleas and mulch to protect the park's Live Oak and placed waste receptacles to keep it clean. Within hours of installation, residents were gathering for lunch and conversation. "I love it!" one visitor said, reflecting broad enthusiasm for the transformation. The city plans further ADA upgrades, ensuring the park remains a vibrant hub for community connection.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Detroit, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options
Description: The Literacy Center launched a pilot program to deploy electric autonomous passenger shuttles to transport older adults, veterans and people with disabilities. The 12-passenger, wheelchair-accessible shuttles operated on-demand five days a week. Individuals living in 17 senior living facilities near the Detroit Medical Center and Veterans Administration Hospital Campus use the shuttles to travel to medical appointments, pharmacies and shopping. The pilot introduced policy makers, stakeholders and residents to the AV concept and facilitated conversations about their vision for the future of autonomous vehicles. The project attracted additional funds from the private sector, three in-kind service vehicles and new partners.
Detroit, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Lots in Detroit's Poletown neighborhood left older adults and neighbors without safe access to nature. The project installed an ADA-compliant boardwalk and gathering deck with seating. It was connected to accessible paths and created a focal point for the Circle Forest restoration. These improvements allow residents and care facility visitors to enjoy the outdoors and socialize. "Workers tell me how happy they are to get away and recharge during their shift," said a project lead, noting the space now draws neighbors daily.
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