AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Fort Fairfield Public Library (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Downtown Fort Fairfield lacked green space, leaving older adults without a safe, accessible spot to relax or connect. The library created a Community Memorial Garden with an ADA-compliant path, electrified gazebo, memorial benches and solar lighting. The space now hosts programs like tea socials and poetry readings and offers free Wi-Fi for those without home internet. Residents visit to honor loved ones. One woman said she comes to visit with her sister at a memorial bench. The project has spurred donations and volunteer support, ensuring the garden remains a vibrant community hub.
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
Loiza, PR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older adults in Torrecilla Baja lacked a free, accessible outdoor place to gather, be active and take part in wellness programs. The project built the Gazebo Amor Mayor at the community center, adding accessible benches and game tables, raised garden beds and solar lighting. Older residents helped through volunteering and a wellness planting workshop. The gazebo created a permanent gathering place that reduces isolation and supports ongoing wellness, cultural and intergenerational activities.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
New Ulm, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Downtown Action Team partnered with Minnesota Main Street to encourage residents of all ages to come downtown, walk down main street and learn about local history. To encourage socializing, they rearranged underutilized benches downtown, grouping some with new outdoor tables to create places for residents to sit and linger. Organizers installed plaques featuring photos and a brief narrative on the benches. Additionally, they adorned tabled with imagery and text explaining New Ulm's history.
Willcox, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Despite years of neglect, the Heritage Courtyard represents a beloved and beautiful part of Willcox's downtown. To make the space more welcoming to residents of all ages, Willcox Theater and Arts -- whose building is adjacent to the courtyard -- installed benches, bulletin boards and planters. Additionally, a local craftsman constructed a new gateway for the space, which is coated in copper to pay homage to Arizona's mining history. The courtyard contributes to downtown walkability and is first project in the town's Downtown Revitalization Plan, paving the way for future community improvements. The City plans to use the park for special events, exhibits and storytelling activities.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Limestone, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Part of larger efforts to revitalize a public park, this project created a walking path. Volunteers installed the path, which winds around newly installed playground equipment, giving residents of all ages a space to exercise and socialize. Project organizers say they are considering ways to expand the pathway to more areas of the park in the future.
Presque Isle, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Trails
Description: The Presque Isle Bike Walking Trail winds four miles through the heart of town. Working with the local hospital, the City constructed three new trail loops near the local community center, where users can find a water fountain, restrooms and concessions. They also added landscaping, a new bridge and two dedicated parking lots to provide easier access to the trail system. The new loops allow visitors to opt for shorter walks without having to backtrack to return to the trail entrance. Additionally, they provide a more direct connection to downtown, as well access to a playground, splash pad, athletic fields, public market and Riverside Park.
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 Maine State Office
53 Baxter Boulevard
Suite 202
Portland, ME 04101
United States