Elgin, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Innovative home maintenance repair and services

Description: Many older adults sought meaningful ways to stay active during winter and connect with others who enjoy gardening. The library stocked a Seed Library with donated seeds and hosted workshops on seed saving, winter herb gardening and pollinators along with lively plant swaps. One participant said the events became her social life, reflecting how the program created community. Strong engagement and recurring seed donations show the Seed Library is becoming a lasting resource.

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

Batavia, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: Local officials and community organizations hoped to increase pedestrian and bicycle traffic in downtown Batavia. To do this, the Batavia Environmental Commission, Batavia Bicycle Commission, the WellBatavia Initiative and Batavia Maitreet undertook a research and promotional campaign. They hosted a walk and bike audit that taught residents urban biking skills, such as how to load a bike onto a public bus. The initiative then paired participants with residents of a local retirement community, as well as with families with small children, to help them learn about biking. The group produced a 15-minute video documentary presenting the town's history, showcasing its pedestrian and bike infrastructure and highlighting the need for future improvements. In 2022, Batavia announced it would create a bicycle and walking plan to improve city trails and make intersections safer.