AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Families Anchored In Total Harmony Inc. (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ HomeFit Modifications
└ HomeFit Modifications
Many older adults in Gary faced home hazards that increased fall risk, especially for those with chronic conditions. To address this, the organization distributed rug rippers and AARP HomeFit Guides to more than 200 households age 50-plus and hosted weekly sessions on safety and modification strategies. The effort encouraged residents to plan improvements and share tips with others, creating momentum for safer homes. One participant said they were ready to make changes after learning how simple adjustments could prevent injuries, underscoring the project's role in promoting independence and well-being.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Brookings, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Ruths Eye of the Storm addressed home safety risks faced by older adults, including survivors of domestic abuse, who were struggling to remain safely housed due to small but serious hazards inside their homes. Limited mobility, fear of approaching landlords and lack of awareness about affordable modifications made everyday conditions more dangerous. The project organized educational and demonstration events that connected older adults with simple safety solutions and trusted community partners. Participants received items such as lighting, nonskid materials and pathway supports, along with follow-up home walkthroughs to identify and address additional risks. In several cases, the work led to direct, individualized interventions that resolved urgent problems, including restoring safe access to water and bathroom facilities. One participant, after critical repairs were completed, described the impact plainly: "This is what dignity looks like."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Livingston, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: This project will consist of five home safety events. Topics include common home hazards and prevention strategies, crucial home repairs for safety and accessibility, and cost-effective maintenance solutions.
Washburn, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older adults in Washburn faced safety risks at home due to limited knowledge and resources for modifications. The library hosted an educational event that exceeded expectations, drawing 35 participants age 50-plus. Attendees received HomeFit bags with items like grab bars and motion-sensor lights and had access to an occupational therapist for personalized guidance. Participants reported feeling safer and more confident about aging in place, with one noting that the items provided were things much needed and that they "added an extra level of safety to my home!"
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Gary, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options
Description: This project will enhance accessibility by installing a bus shelter, speed bumps, solar-powered crosswalks, striped crosswalks, and a bike lane. These improvements will connect senior apartments to a local park and trail.
Gary, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Residents of Genesis Towers -- an affordable housing complex for older adults -- often congregated in a vacant lot in Gary's downtown. This project set out to activate the lot into an accessible gathering space. Local students worked to gather input from residents about their hopes for the new park, and the City held design workshops. Plans for the space featured ADA-accessible walkways, seating, picnic tables and raised garden beds. Organizers also worked to provide free Wi-Fi access in the space, as well as a bike repair station. Organizers say the park is designed to host free or low-cost events -- part of the overarching goal of combatting social isolation through innovative public spaces.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Indiana State Office
One N. Capitol Avenue
Suite 1275
Indianapolis, IN 46204
United States