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Global Growers Network (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
Immigrant and refugee growers in Stone Mountain needed better resources and infrastructure to farm collectively. The grant funded upgrades at two sites-Indian Creek MARTA Station Farm and North Dekalb Mall Garden-adding land improvements, garden tools, seed bins and picnic tables. These enhancements created safer, more functional spaces for older adults and strengthened community engagement. Both gardens are now part of long-term plans, including a partnership with Atlanta's transit authority and integration into a major mixed-use redevelopment. This helps position growers to sell produce locally and sustain food access.
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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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.
Akron, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Shanti Community Farms created a Nepali garden to give older adults in Akron's diverse neighborhoods a place to grow familiar foods and reconnect with cultural traditions. Elevated beds made gardening easier, and families cultivated potatoes, mustard greens and Asian eggplant while preparing traditional dishes for picnics and farmers markets. The project boosted physical activity, improved diets and generated income through sales. It also strengthened intergenerational ties as grandparents gardened alongside grandchildren, reducing isolation and fostering community pride. Plans to expand into an education center promise lasting benefits.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Gloucester, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Many patients faced food insecurity, making it harder to manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. The clinic launched a food pantry and container garden, partnered with local groups and secured donated refrigerators and a freezer to store fresh produce. This effort began addressing a critical social determinant of health and sparked plans for a "food pharmacy" program tailored to chronic conditions.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Clarkston, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Clarkston's only community center was unusable, leaving older adults without a safe space for activities in a city where language barriers and isolation are common. The organization renovated the center with new furniture and climate control, then launched crochet workshops pairing older adults with youth. It also spurred new Tai Chi and peace education classes. The permanent hub now hosts programs and resource drives, fostering intergenerational learning and cultural exchange. For residents age 50-plus, the center offers consistent programming and a nearby venue to stay active and connected.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Doraville, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: Residents of all ages will collaborate to create rotating murals that showcase local stories and identity. Art events will give older adults low-impact creative options, foster intergenerational bonds and beautify shared spaces.
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