Bonanza, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Older adults and residents with mobility challenges had limited access to safe recreational spaces in a rural community with few public amenities. The existing playground had uneven surfaces and outdated equipment that prevented many residents from participating, limiting opportunities for physical activity and time with family. The district transformed Big Springs Park into a fully ADA-accessible playground with level surfaces, accessible play features, benches and shade. Older adult volunteers played a central role in planning and installation, helping ensure the space reflected real mobility needs and comfort concerns. The new playground created a dependable gathering place where older adults can stay active, socialize and spend time with grandchildren. By removing long-standing access barriers and engaging residents age 50 or over as leaders, the project strengthened community ownership and established inclusive design as a model for future public improvements.

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

Cutler Bay, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: To encourage residents to exercise and socialize with one another, the Town of Cutler Bay added accessible exercise equipment - with a shade canopy to keep visitors cool -- to Cutler Ridge Park. Although Hurricane Irma damaged the park during installation, the new equipment now gives older adults the opportunity to improve their balance, strength, flexibility, range of motion and coordination. Project organizers say many older adults visit the park with their children and using the new fitness machines, which resemble playground equipment, can feel more like playing than exercising. Since the project's completion. the Town has installed similar fitness equipment at two other local parks.

Lillian, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Lillian Recreational Park sought to address chronic loneliness among older adults who lacked inviting places to gather and build steady social ties. It converted an unused porch into a space with comfortable seating, fans, heaters, murals and game tables. It then launched bingo, Mahjong, walking sessions and other events shaped by a volunteer committee. These additions gave residents a casual place to meet new people and stay active. One visitor said she loves how the porch became "an inviting, comfortable and inclusive spot... a great meeting space." Early turnout shows it offers a dependable way for people to stay connected.

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