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Windham, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Older adults in Windham had few chances for social engagement and healthy activities, leaving many isolated. The local center added raised garden beds and offered tools and weekly sessions led by a master gardener. This created an inviting space that drew new participants and expanded partnerships. The garden is now a hub for connection and learning, reducing isolation and promoting well-being. One participant said the leader's passion for organic cultivation "kindled my interest and active participation."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Washington, DC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Many older adults in Adams Morgan live in apartments without outdoor space, leaving them isolated and without access to fresh produce. Vida created a small garden where people could grow peppers, tomatoes and herbs central to their cuisine, teaching gardening skills and offering a sense of purpose. Volunteers described the joy of harvesting as "priceless." The project also strengthened community ties, with plans to expand the garden, integrate it into Vida's produce distribution program and involve neighbors in future growing efforts.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Salt Lake City, UT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Salt Lake City's Taylorsville neighborhood is home to refugee families from Syria, Myanmar and Afghanistan. Many new residents, however, struggle with social isolation. To help people feel connected, Salt Lake County created a community garden at the local senior center. Volunteers built four raised beds and the County provided ergonomic gardening equipment, seeds and starter plants. Project organizers say the opportunity to garden gives older adults -- who were often farmers and ranchers in their native countries -- a renewed sense of purpose. Gardening also allows them to form relationships with their neighbors.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
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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