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2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Older adults in Tallulah faced barriers to technology access and digital skills, leaving them isolated and unable to manage online tasks. To address this, the organization renovated a former church into an accessible tech hub with ramps, lighting and restrooms, and launched Tech Savvy Seniors workshops. Participants received hands-on training for smartphones, tablets and laptops, plus ongoing drop-in support. The program reduced isolation and empowered independence, with one participant saying, "I never thought I would be able to pay my bills online, but this program has completely changed my life."
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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Jersey City, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in Hudson Gardens public housing lacked internet access and digital skills, leaving them isolated from essential services and family connections. To close this gap, the housing authority distributed Wi-Fi-enabled tablets and partnered with Hudson County Community College. Student tutors provided one-on-one lessons on email, online safety and using free broadband programs. The sessions helped 46 residents gain digital confidence and independence. One participant said the program was a "lifesaver," sharing that her bills now cost less and she can finally explore games and other tools on her new tablet.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
San Francisco, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in San Francisco struggled with technology-not because they lacked devices, but because they lacked help. To meet that need, SF Tech Council organized five multilingual "Tech Support Popups" that offered free one-on-one assistance in neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Tenderloin. Nearly 100 volunteers helped more than 200 residents update devices, remove viruses and sign up for affordable internet programs. The events built digital confidence and community connections, inspiring agencies to explore permanent tech help services. One Cantonese-speaking participant said she finally felt "heard" while learning to use her phone to stay in touch with her children.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Shelbyville, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in Shelbyville faced difficulty in navigating digital tools needed for daily life. The Family Life Center offered classes and personalized coaching that helped participants practice email, texting, telehealth and other essential tasks. Teens served as digital mentors, creating a patient environment where everyone could learn at their own pace. Participants said the instruction was helpful and reassuring, noting how learning simple skills made them feel more connected and independent. The project strengthened social ties, reduced isolation and positioned the Family Life Center as a trusted hub for ongoing digital inclusion and future partnerships.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Tallulah, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: The City of Tallulah set out to beautify a walkway in its central business district. The area is home to many community resources, including a grocery store, bank, post office, library, retail stores and public offices. In addition to giving people a pleasant route to walk, the project made crosswalks more visible to drivers, making crossing the street safer.
Rolling Fork, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: In Rolling Fork, residents had few safe places downtown to walk or linger, a challenge made more acute after a tornado left the area struggling to recover. For older adults, limited walkable space meant fewer chances to stay active and connect with neighbors during a period marked by stress and isolation. Lower Delta Partnership responded by creating a walking path around the downtown square, using bright painted designs and public art to improve visibility and draw people in. ADA-compliant benches and trash receptacles were placed along the route, allowing walkers to rest comfortably and return more often. Volunteers helped bring the space to life and launched the path with a community event that encouraged use. The route is now part of daily routines for older adults and other residents, and it has become a visible sign of hope downtown. A local gym owner said the length and bench spacing made it easier for older adults to walk multiple laps without feeling intimidated.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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