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Family Service Rochester (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
After the City of Rochester cut its parks and recreation budget during the COVID-19 pandemic, many small parks in Rochester fell into disrepair. To address this, Family Service Rochester improved a pocket park in the City's Friendship Park neighborhood, a diverse, low-income area of the city. This project added new trees, benches and a multilingual information kiosk. A volunteer team dug holes, planted, watered and staked trees. Others chipped in to keep the park free of litter. Organizers say the project demonstrated that residents will invest their time to improve their neighborhood. After the project's completion, volunteers from the initiative were inspired to improve other parks in the area.
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See More Projects Like This One
Springfield, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: As part of wider corridor improvement efforts, the 1159 Southwest Community Development Corporation activated three vacant lots, transforming them into a public gathering space dubbed Grand Harmony. Volunteers installed porch swings, picnic tables, benches and a new grill at the site. They also added LED lighting and a storage shed. Project organizers say Grand Harmony's success has opened doors for other revitalization efforts. In December 2020, a local foundation provided 1159 South Community Development Corporation with funding to activate a nearby vacant lot into an inspiration garden.
Richford, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Richford lacked outdoor spaces for older adults to socialize and stay active, leaving many isolated despite frequent visits to the health center. The project created an outdoor Welcome Center with seating, raised garden beds, an informational kiosk and a lending pantry. Weather-resistant tables and umbrellas encourage outdoor meals and community interaction. Residents now enjoy a scenic, accessible space for gatherings and health-focused events. One staff member shared how his mother, a housing tenant, now joins him for lunch outside-a simple change fostering connection and well-being.
Okmulgee, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will transform a neglected downtown alley into a vibrant space with seating, murals, and greenery. It aims to enhance accessibility and engagement, providing older adults a welcoming place to enjoy events.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Rochester, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Walkability
Description: Sidewalks in one Rochester neighborhood lacked safe, walkable routes, putting pedestrians, especially older adults, at risk. To address this, the organization led 12 walk audits covering dozens of blocks, drawing a large group to identify hazards and assets. The effort demonstrated how audits could shape city planning and was incorporated into the sidewalk improvement process. It also sparked interest in expanding audits to other neighborhoods and transit projects, showing strong community engagement in creating safer, age-friendly streets.
Lake City, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions
Description: Lake City, home to one of Minnesota's oldest populations, faced a shortage of affordable housing and options for aging in place. Although ADUs were allowed, few residents pursued them due to lack of awareness and design access. The Port Authority launched an education campaign with informational sessions, brochures and a dedicated webpage. They partnered with housing advocates to provide free pre-reviewed ADU designs, including above-garage options. Interest surged, with residents contacting city planners and realtors seeking guidance.
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