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Groundwork Rhode Island (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Central Falls has little green space and faces heat and health challenges, leaving older adults without safe outdoor areas. The project revitalized Phillips Street Park with raised garden beds, a paved patio, shade structure and seating, including chess tables and benches. A musical play feature was added for children, creating a multigenerational space for gardening, learning and socializing. One 50-plus neighbor said that she thought this park and the project itself was exactly what Central Falls needed, reflecting strong community support.
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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Williamston, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To create a downtown community space, the Martin County Chamber of Commerce transformed an empty lot by building a covered stage. The Chamber also added seating, allowing the space to accommodate local events. In addition, they added raised garden beds nearby, installing them at different heights to accommodate, children, older adults and people who use wheelchairs. Since its installation, the stage has hosted a variety of events and performances, including a local theater group's performance of excerpts from The Sound of Music, a karaoke night and a town Christmas celebration. Organizers say they hope the project sparks business investment and revitalization in Williamston's downtown.
Pleasant Hill, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Limited seating in Pleasant Hill's park and recreation complex made it harder for older adults and people with mobility challenges to rest, watch events and stay engaged. The City of Pleasant Hill installed benches, picnic tables and a swing at both sites, placing them near paths and activity hubs to create reliable rest spots. Residents quickly reported benefits, noting it is easier to include family members with mobility needs and stay longer at gatherings. Early use highlighted demand for more seating and shade, guiding next steps as the city plans additional park improvements.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Evanston, WY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Two historic public spaces in Evanston lacked features that encouraged active use, leaving older adults with few options for social engagement. To change that, the city installed three concrete game tables for ping pong, foosball and chess/checkers, with wheelchair-friendly seating and using donated equipment. Volunteers helped assemble the tables, creating vibrant spaces for low-impact physical and mental activity. The durable tables are expected to draw visitors for years. A project leader said, "The day after the game tables were out, we heard a good story about a community member's granddaughter playing foosball with her dad. She had the best time and couldn't wait to play again."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Pawtucket, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To enable older adults to exercise, socialize and enjoy nature, Pawtucket's Division of Senior Services created an outdoor activity center at Leon Mathieu Senior Center. They installed seating, planters and two large outdoor tabletop game stations. Project organizers also created an age-friendly playground for low-impact exercise, adding fitness and recreational equipment. The Senior Center provides services and programs for adults 55 and older and aims to encourage healthy aging and keep older residents connected to the community.
Central Falls, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: To allow for more community events in Veterans Memorial Park, the City of Central Falls purchased two canopies to shade visitors from the sun. The City then set up the all-weather canopies at a series of events held in the park, including a picnic, Zumba gatherings and ice cream socials. Project organizers say the canopies will allow them to expand outdoor programming aimed at older adult residents.
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