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ELLA Library (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
To turn an unused space into a community asset, ELLA Library created raised beds that allow older adults to garden comfortably. A retiree led the effort, and monthly events brought neighbors together to share skills and grow produce. The project sparked long-term plans for food solidarity and education, including partnerships to expand growing areas and provide ongoing support. The initiative laid the foundation for a sustainable, intergenerational gardening program.
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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Kansas City, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: An underused community garden in the Strawberry Hill neighborhood limited access to fresh produce and social connection, especially for older adults. The association revitalized the space by rehabbing raised beds, restoring sheds and adding pollinator plants. It also hosted cleanup, games and planting events to draw neighbors together. New signage made the garden more inclusive, and a fall harvest festival boosted engagement. The garden now fosters intergenerational activity and reduces isolation, with plans for seasonal programs and volunteer partnerships. One older neighbor, intrigued by the improvements, said he was eager to use a raised bed despite his limited mobility.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Portsmouth, NH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Residents of Atlantic Heights Senior Housing faced barriers to fresh food and outdoor activity, leaving many isolated. Gather partnered with the housing authority to build four raised garden beds, install a watering system and provide seasonal plants. Twenty residents helped plan, plant and maintain vegetables, herbs and flowers. The gardens now offer a sustainable source of produce, improve nutrition and foster social connection while removing mobility barriers. Success has inspired plans for gardening workshops and expansion to other housing sites.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Silver Spring, MD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The first season of a new community garden revealed gaps in accessibility and education for older adults and neighbors. IMPACT Silver Spring responded by offering technical assistance and hosting gardening workshops, while volunteers widened an informal path to improve access. Partnerships with local agencies strengthened the effort, creating a space for learning and connection. Plans now include drip irrigation, a food forest and produce donations, with a goal to secure funding for permanent walkways and eventually hand stewardship to the community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Rossville, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space improvements to increase high-speed internet
Description: Many residents of Rossville lacked reliable internet access and free places to be active. Local assessments showed high rates of inactivity and chronic disease. Walker County installed a solar-powered charging station with a Wi-Fi hotspot in a new public park, adding seating and a free connection point for people who cannot afford internet service. Its placement along the walking trail lets older adults stay connected while moving, making it easier to exercise, socialize and communicate with family. The county will monitor usage to decide whether to add more stations as park activity grows and continues expanding opportunities for safe outdoor recreation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Chattanooga, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: To help combat social isolation, the City of Chattanooga's Department of Youth and Family Development provided older adults with Chromebooks, mouses and hotspots to allow them to connect to the internet. Additionally, the City offered digital skills classes at several locations to help them use the devices. Project organizers say the COVID-19 pandemic limited opportunities for social interaction for many residents. This project provided vulnerable residents with internet access and know-how, allowing them to build and maintain interpersonal relationships.
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