Cleveland, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: The Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority saw an opportunity to revitalize an abandoned volleyball court behind one of their public housing buildings, creating a space to bring residents together and address social isolation. Using input from the residents of Riverview Tower, an apartment building for low-income older adults, they created a garden where residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables. The garden has places to sit and features accessibility features for residents with mobility challenges. Additionally, the space includes sensory areas, which allow visitors to smell, touch and taste herbs, fruits and berries.

Newark, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: The project will install fencing around garden beds and provide supplies for older residents. Those residents will take over summer maintenance of a pilot garden project at a local elementary school.

Kihei, HI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project will plant 30 fruit trees and native Hawaiian plants, creating a shaded area for older adults. The project will also include educational signage and workshops on sustainable farming practices.