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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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See More Projects Like This One
Casselberry, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The Hindu Society of Central Florida is a vital center of the Hindu community. However, the temple's grounds needed a facelift. IDEAS for Us upgraded landscaping in the Society's courtyard, planting 250 native plants, as well as two magnolia trees. They also installed benches and an arbor to create a self-seeding, perennial garden that society members can use throughout the year. The project helped spur a thriving garden program and laid the groundwork for expansion to the space.
Kansas City, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The project tackled the challenge of a once-neglected lot that offered no inviting place for residents to sit or gather, reinforcing its reputation as an unsafe and unused space. The project added seating as a first step toward real progress in reclaiming the area, encouraging people to rest and converse. The improvements also reduced unwanted activity by showing that the site was becoming active again. Growing community interest supported future phases of the vision, and volunteers and interns continued stepping in to help at events. The upgrades sparked conversations about bringing similar spaces to other neighborhoods.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Pine Bluff, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Uneven surfaces and limited seating made it hard for older adults to enjoy gardening and wellness activities. To improve access, the organization installed an asphalt driveway and secondary parking area, repaired sidewalks and added ergonomic seating options. These changes created a safer, more welcoming space for gatherings and programs like Yoga in the Garden. The upgrades also sparked plans for new fitness events and attracted donors and volunteers, strengthening the garden's role as a hub for health and community connection.
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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