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Grace Gardening Inc. (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
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.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Indianapolis, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: A neglected garden limited opportunities for older adults and caregivers to connect and enjoy outdoor activities. The project revitalized the space with raised beds for accessibility. It also partnered with master gardeners, Boy Scouts and nonprofits to bring volunteers for maintenance and education. Residents learned to plant and harvest produce, turning the garden into a place to sit, talk and share experiences. One participant said, "Thanks for teaching me how to garden this summer. I had no idea how much fun it was. I can't wait to teach my grandkids next summer." Plans include expanding beds and hosting community events to strengthen ties.
Chattanooga, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: To turn an unused space into a community asset, ELLA Library created raised beds that allow older adults to garden comfortably. A retiree led the effort, and monthly events brought neighbors together to share skills and grow produce. The project sparked long-term plans for food solidarity and education, including partnerships to expand growing areas and provide ongoing support. The initiative laid the foundation for a sustainable, intergenerational gardening program.
Ranson, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: To create a welcoming space for older adults and foster intergenerational engagement, Ranson Community Gardens added a micro-orchard with 10 native fruit trees, a berry patch and a patio with seating. Informational signage and a nearby parking area improved accessibility, and two community events introduced the orchard to residents. The space now hosts classes and social gatherings, helping older adults connect with neighbors and nature. At a tree planting event, one longtime resident said he planned to bring his grandchildren and would think of the project every time he saw his new tree.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Pine Bluff, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: For children living below the poverty line in Pine Bluffs, affordable fruits and vegetables are difficult to come by. The Seed to Table Community Garden helps to close the gap, providing garden plots for local families. The City of Pine Bluffs further improved the garden by installing an accessible pavilion and eight benches. They also provided extra gardening supplies, fertilizer and seedlings to help the garden serve additional residents.
Pine Bluff, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bike Audits
Description: Cyclists in Pine Bluff faced safety risks from the lack of bike lanes, limiting options for active transportation. To address this, the city held three bike audits in the regional park, engaging older adults to identify hazards and shape plans. The audits set goals for adding bike lanes and created a safe space for residents age 50-plus to ride. Findings will guide funding requests for bike lanes and ramps, and the effort sparked interest in future cycling events. One participant said she hopes for more opportunities to "ride and fellowship," underscoring the project's role in promoting safety and social connection.
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