Flint, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Genesee County struggles with food insecurity and chronic disease, challenges worsened by the pandemic and Flint's water crisis. To address these issues, the coalition expanded gardens at nine sites, adding accessible raised beds, farm fields and in-ground plots. Volunteers repaired a greenhouse and launched a countywide garden network to share resources and expertise. These efforts are creating lasting change by increasing access to fresh produce and safe outdoor activity for older adults. "We would like to have as much in the works as we can to grow big for spring... We have built a lot of excitement!" said a food pantry director.

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

Shakopee, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: When a new development threatened to displace an active community garden, residents of Shakopee were disappointed. But the City of Shakopee saw an opportunity to move the garden in a more centrally accessible location near a popular bicycle and pedestrian route. This project added a concrete patio, new garden beds, seating, bike racks and trash and recycling bins to the new garden. With ADA-compliant features, including a concrete path and benches, the space is accessible to gardeners of all ages and abilities. Since the relocation, the garden provides fresh produce to families in need throughout Shakopee.

Highland Park, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: New community green spaces will be created in Highland Park. The work will engage older adults and youth in developing spaces such as flower gardens, rain gardens and other features that reduce stormwater runoff and enhance neighborhood environments.