Etowah, AR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: A new pickleball court will be built within the existing city park using a shared-use surface and equipment. The court will offer a low-impact way for older residents to exercise and socialize.

Hayti, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The Town of Hayti tackled a long-standing comfort and safety issue at its softball field, where older adults often gather to watch grandchildren play. With no shade and uneven access around the grandstand, hot summer games were difficult to sit through and navigating the area posed challenges for people with mobility concerns. Local volunteers built a roof over the concrete bleachers, added guard rails and poured level cement pads on both sides to create wheelchair accessible access. The changes immediately improved comfort and safety, especially during peak summer heat. Community members shared that the value of the project became clear once the roof was in place, providing relief from the sun and making it easier to stay for full games. The upgraded grandstand is expected to serve residents for decades and is guiding plans for additional seating and shade as the field continues to function as a central gathering place.

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

Portland, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Uneven gravel paths with be replaced with smooth asphalt to create a continuous, accessible route at a local garden site. These upgrades will improve mobility, safety and independent access for visitors age 50-plus and for those using mobility aids.