Miami, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: In downtown Miami, where green space is scarce and many older adults face isolation, Friends of The Underline launched the Walk4Life walking club to help residents connect and stay active. Participants met weekly for guided walks and stretching along the new urban trail, with a solar-powered kiosk tracking miles and celebrating progress. More than 200 people joined the 10-week program, creating friendships and routines that extended beyond the walks. "This is the only time I push myself," said one participant, noting how the group gave her strength and purpose. The project proved that even simple movement, especially when shared outdoors, can bridge communities and improve well-being.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Mosier, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: Following a 2016 oil train derailment and fire that shook their small town, Mosier residents transformed loss into renewal by creating a new community center with a commercial kitchen at its core. The City purchased and installed key equipment to prepare meals for older adults, run a food pantry and help entrepreneurs develop local food products. Volunteers, including older adults and retired chefs, guided the design to meet community needs. A former mayor described the kitchen as "the heart and soul of the new Mosier Center," a place that will bring people together over shared meals while strengthening local health and opportunity.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Princeton, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: In rural Illinois, thousands face food insecurity and limited access to books and art. Community A-to-Z responded by installing 26 Little Free Libraries, Pantries and Art Galleries across Bureau and neighboring counties, including local community centers and food pantries. Nearly half of volunteers were age 50-plus, and building days drew more than 100 visitors, sparking additional installations beyond this project. Older adults now use the libraries as destinations for walks and bike rides, forming new connections and reducing loneliness. With plans to grow to 4,050 units, the project created a lasting network that strengthens literacy and community ties.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.