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Friendly House Inc. (2025) Print
2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Many older adults face barriers to using computers and the internet, limiting access to housing searches, job applications and everyday communication. Friendly House expanded shared computer access and offered hands-on technical help so residents could complete essential online tasks with support. The project added equipment to a community internet center, hosted digital skills classes and provided drop-in, one-on-one assistance. That personalized approach mattered. One participant said the tech helper was very patient and helpful, easing anxiety about asking for assistance. By reducing practical and emotional barriers to technology, the project strengthened ongoing capacity at the center. This helped older adults stay connected to resources, services and relationships that reduce isolation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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See More Projects Like This One
Kissimmee, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults had difficulty accessing food, digital tools and emergency information, especially when transportation or stable housing was limited. These gaps increased isolation and made it harder to stay safe during hurricanes and other disruptions. The Black Empowerment & Community Council responded by converting a minivan into a mobile resource hub that delivered services directly into neighborhoods. Through outreach stops, staff provided meals and food supplies, computer literacy help, laptops and hurricane preparedness resources. Older adults also received one-on-one navigation to connect with housing, benefits and local services. One unhoused older adult shared that receiving meals and preparedness supplies on site increased their sense of safety during hurricane season. By bringing support to where people were, the project reduced access barriers and helped residents remain safer and more connected.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
International Falls, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in rural Koochiching County lacked devices and digital skills, leaving them isolated from health care and social connections. The project offered free laptops and classes on basics and online safety, with additional laptops purchased for future sessions. Participants now use technology for telehealth, work and staying connected. One woman said, "Now more than ever, I need to be in contact with my friends... I video chat weekly and use my provider's online portal," explaining how her new laptop was vital after losing her son.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Houston, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Houston's low-income apartments lacked devices and digital skills, limiting access to telehealth and social engagement. UHD distributed 99 tablets and hosted seven training events where students taught the participants to navigate apps, protect against scams and use tools for health and communication. Residents now use tablets for essential tasks and social activities, reducing isolation and improving access to care. The program also fostered intergenerational connections and plans ongoing tutorials to sustain impact.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Portland, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience
Description: To support the local economy in Portland's St. John's district, the City's Office of Planning and Sustainability launched a volunteer businesses ambassador program. City staff trained volunteers to act as boosters, who helped local businessowners connect with one another. They developed a business inventory and organized focus groups with residents -- including older adults -- to create a civic engagement framework. Project organizers also engaged in placemaking efforts to increase foot traffic. One such project involved creating a mural in the nearby Albina neighborhood. The artwork depicts residents of all ages spending time in a local park. Additionally, the boosters developed plans for a new pocket park.
Portland, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
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