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Glen Ullin Park District (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Outdoor options for older adults were scarce in Glen Ullin, leaving few chances for social connection. That changed when two permanent concrete cornhole games were installed-one at a playground and another downtown-giving residents a simple, fun way to stay active. Volunteers hosted instructional events, and soon people of all ages were stopping by to play. "These games are so awesome, people stop over while we are playing and want to join the fun," said one resident. The project turned idle spaces into lively gathering spots, fostering engagement and movement for everyone.
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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Lebanon, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older adults often skipped downtown events because seating was scarce and carrying chairs or umbrellas was difficult. To remove these barriers, the organization introduced the Helping Hub, a mobile cart stocked with folding and collapsible chairs with armrests. It also includes umbrella-cane combos for shade and mobility support and brochures on local services. Volunteers assembled and deployed the cart at events, making gatherings more inclusive. Participants expressed gratitude, saying it felt like "rolling out the welcome mat." The cart will continue to serve future events and is prompting other groups to consider similar accessibility measures.
Toledo, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To transform a vacant lot into a pocket park, Salem Lutheran Church installed benches at the site. Inspired by the improvements, community members contributed donations to construct concrete pads for the benches and add trash receptacles nearby. The Church also built a pergola to provide shade at a nearby bus stop, making it the only stop with shelter in the immediate neighborhood. Project organizers engaged local teenagers to help with installation, who volunteered alongside residents. Salem Lutheran Church has since continued its efforts to revitalize North Toledo, hosting a summer youth program to build a community garden for the neighborhood.
Afton, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The City of Afton built a portable parklet, which City staff can easily set up around town. The temporary patio takes up the space of three on-street parking spaces and accommodates tables and chairs for a dozen people. It also includes shade sails to keep visitors out of the sun. Volunteers -- including local high school students -- constructed the parklet out of recycled wooden pallets. Designed to be broken down and stored for winter, the parklet offers extra outdoor seating for local restaurants parklet features shade sails to block out the sun. In addition, the City deploys it on the town square for community events, such as parades and the Fourth of July.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Mandan, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Downtown Mandan lacked bike parking, making it harder for residents and visitors to choose biking over driving. The city installed 25 bike racks at key destinations, including near housing and services for older adults, and promoted biking through social media. The racks connect downtown to regional trails and doubled the city's bike parking options, encouraging active transportation and healthier lifestyles. The project also set the stage for future street upgrades and zoning changes to expand bike infrastructure. One older adult said having a safe place to park his bike while his car was in the shop let him stay active and run errands, showing the immediate benefit for mobility and independence.
Hazen, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Older adults and people with mobility challenges could not access the library's basement meeting rooms, limiting participation in art classes and community events. The project installed three chairlifts on two stairwells, creating safe, reliable access and plans to add a wheelchair for convenience. These improvements ensure long-term accessibility for older adults and people with disabilities. "The chairlifts will ensure that our art group will be able to continue to use the room we rent downstairs... We are very excited," said a participant.
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