Denver, CO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Many older adults lacked basic disaster plans and were unsure how to respond during emergencies, including how to evacuate or protect important documents. The Center on Colfax addressed these gaps through three hands-on workshops that guided participants through creating written plans, assembling emergency kits and safeguarding vital records. Each attendee received a fireproof document box and a first aid kit to support immediate follow-through at home. Surveys showed strong gains in understanding and readiness, with most participants planning to act on what they learned. One participant called the sessions the best learning opportunity at The Center, while another said that the workshops provided definitive actions to take, signaling greater confidence and preparedness.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Shelbyville, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Older adults in the community often lacked clear plans for how to respond to severe weather and other emergencies. This left them unsure about evacuation steps, supplies and communication. Marnel C. Moorman Family Life Center addressed this gap through hands-on preparedness sessions that focused on practical planning, first aid basics and emergency alerts. Participants created personal emergency plans and received checklists, local contact information and preparedness resources they could use at home. The sessions also encouraged people to talk through plans with family and neighbors. This strengthened informal support networks. One participant shared, "I created an emergency plan, learned how to use my supplies and even helped my neighbor update theirs. I feel safer." By building skills and confidence, the project helped older adults take concrete steps toward being better prepared when emergencies occur.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Woodside, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Older adults from several buildings will receive disaster preparedness training and leadership instruction. Trained volunteers will help organize emergency planning activities within their buildings.