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Franciscan Monastery Garden Guild (2025) | AARP Livable Communities Map

Franciscan Monastery Garden Guild (2025) Print

2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee

Project Category

Public places
└ Community Gardens

Older adults volunteering in the community garden, growing fresh produce for donation, were increasingly limited by mobility challenges and summer heat, putting pressure on a program that depends on consistent hands-on work. Franciscan Monastery Garden Guild responded by upgrading the garden with raised beds, ergonomic tools, accessible seating and misting fans. These improvements reduced bending and strain, helped volunteers work safely in hot conditions and made it easier for people with limited mobility to plant, tend and harvest. The changes allowed older adults to remain active in the garden rather than step back from the work. The upgrades also made the space more welcoming to new volunteers, supporting steady production of fresh vegetables for food pantries and meal programs. By removing physical barriers, the project helped older adults continue contributing their time while expanding access to locally grown food.

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

Moab, UT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Older adults in Moab wanted to volunteer in the community garden but faced discomfort with tasks like weeding. The project purchased kneeling mats, mobile benches and other tools to make gardening easier and hosted Weed n Feed events where volunteers worked together and shared meals. These changes opened the door for more older adults to participate, fostering social connections and encouraging physical activity. Organizers expect the improvements to help reduce isolation and keep volunteers coming back.

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

Brevard, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Families lacked a shared space for growing food and learning healthy habits. The project expanded a community garden with a 50-by-50-foot section and engaged retired tutors and students in planting activities. Gardening became a therapeutic activity that strengthened relationships and encouraged intergenerational learning. The space now serves as a hub for wellness and education, with plans for classes, volunteer recruitment and partnerships to grow participation and promote healthy eating.

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

Chariton, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: The library sought to turn unused land into an accessible outdoor space for learning and social connection, but the site lacked features for older adults and people with mobility challenges. With grant funding, the library purchased two accessible tables and outdoor light post/charging stations for a planned sensory garden. Benches were donated, and design work began with local students and master gardeners. The plans include barrier-free entrances, a sidewalk and a storywalk to encourage engagement. These additions aim to create a welcoming space for older residents and foster intergenerational learning.

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

Washington, DC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Faith Mobile Market responded to gaps in emergency readiness by giving older adults practical training and essential supplies to help them manage crises. Six workshops reached 187 participants with information on first aid and disaster planning, and the effort also provided medical supplies, flu shots and food support. These services increased confidence among residents who faced uncertainty, and one attendee said the workshop "gave me a grave reality that I am now better prepared to handle." The project strengthened community connections and set the stage for continued preparedness training and expanded resources to support older adults navigating future emergencies.

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

Washington, DC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: Limited transportation left many older adults in Washington DC's Ward 5 isolated and unable to reach essential services or the Senior Wellness Center. Seabury expanded shuttle service from two to three days weekly, giving 55 riders reliable access to wellness programs, grocery trips and social outings. Volunteers assisted with mobility needs, creating a safe, welcoming experience. Riders called the shuttle "a lifesaver," noting it helped them meet people and stay active. The model is prompting plans for sustainable expansion and partnerships, ensuring more older adults can maintain independence and combat isolation.

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

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