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Healthy Klamath (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Downtown Klamath Falls had dark, uninviting alleyways that discouraged foot traffic and community engagement. The project installed a mosaic mural created by older adults and additional artwork by local artists on a downtown building. Participants painted individual tiles during four sessions at the center, and the finished piece was unveiled at a celebratory event. The murals brighten alleyways, encourage pedestrian use and foster a sense of pride and inclusion among older adults. "I was so glad to be involved on this project," said one participant.
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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Ossipee, NH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The park lacked shade and shelter, leaving older adults and families exposed to sun and rain. Volunteers built a 12-by-16-foot pavilion and added an ADA-compliant picnic table and benches, contributing more than 500 hours to the effort. The pavilion now serves as a safe, year-round gathering spot for meetings and celebrations. One resident stated that now "we see people using the park almost every hour of the day. "
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Greeley, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Greeley lacked a downtown corridor and gathering spaces, leaving residents without a sense of place. The project installed decorative light poles along State Highway 38, creating a focal point and sparking community pride. The grant also prompted events like a car cruise and soup supper, which had not occurred in years, and helped raise funds for future improvements. One volunteer said, "I think it's great for our small town and it's a great starting point for more good things to come." Plans include adding more light poles and playground equipment to continue revitalization.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Baltimore, MD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project helped prepare the ground for Rachael Wilson Memorial Park, named in honor of Maryland's first woman firefighter to be killed in the line of duty. To clear room for park amenities, Bon Secours Community Works removed two sections of concrete foundation, left over from the foundations of abandoned homes that once sat on the site. Project organizers also planted 30 trees. The new greenspace is the result of a grassroots effort by two longtime West Baltimore residents and advocates. Today, the park features new playground equipment and a mural painted by a local artist, which pays tribute to Rachael Wilson.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Chiloquin, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Downtown Chiloquin's entrance was marked by boarded-up buildings and a barren gravel lot, reinforcing economic decline and leaving residents without a welcoming public space. The city transformed the lot into a 900-square-foot pocket park with ADA-compliant benches and tables, shade structures, bike racks and planters. Volunteers, many age 50-plus, helped build and plant the space, creating a safe, accessible spot for social connection. Now families picnic, children do homework and farmers market visitors gather, signaling renewed community pride. The park complements broader revitalization efforts and will expand as road improvements and building restorations progress.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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.
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