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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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Corning, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Wynn Park is home to a paved, tree-lined walking path, which members of the local Silver Sneakers walking club use frequently. However, that path lacked seating options. To increase accessibility for people of all ages and abilities, the City of Corning installed ADA-compliant benches along the walking track and on the nearby Clay County Courthouse grounds. Volunteers also beautified the courthouse campus by planting flowers. Organizers say the improvements give older adults places to rest that are welcoming and beautiful.
Santa Rosa Beach, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older adults in Walton County had few options for outdoor recreation and social connection. To address this, the county transformed a library courtyard into a gaming garden with a ping-pong table, chess table and corn hole set. These additions created a welcoming space for residents to gather and stay active. The project introduced a new venue for multigenerational interaction and prompted plans for future upgrades, including walkways to improve accessibility.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A neighborhood playground in Musicians Village had fallen into disrepair, leaving older adults and families without a safe space to gather. Volunteers replaced damaged equipment and added two new play structures. They also installed an accessible picnic table and built a new fence to restore safety and appeal. Monthly cleanups removed hazards like broken glass, and community events drew residents back to the park. The upgrades transformed the site into a welcoming space for multigenerational activity. This prompted additional city funding for future improvements, signaling long-term investment in neighborhood livability.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Klamath Falls, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A clearly marked walking path and easy‑to‑read wayfinding signs will be installed around a Senior Center. These upgrades will make it safer and easier for older adults to walk, stay active and navigate the property.
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.
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