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Westminster, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Many older adults living independently had little emergency preparedness information or supplies, leaving them uncertain about how they would respond during an unexpected event. Caring Carroll addressed this need by assembling and delivering more than 100 personal emergency preparedness kits to residents age 60-plus. Volunteers paired these supplies with practical guidance during rides and visits, helping preparedness become part of routine support rather than a one-time message. Training increased awareness among both volunteers and care receivers, many of whom had never considered personal emergency planning. Residents reported feeling more confident knowing they had basic tools and someone looking out for them. Residents reached out after these kits were delivered to show their thanks, underscoring how the project strengthened trust, reassurance and a sense of security for older adults aging in place.

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

Shawnee, OK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Monthly meetings will provide disaster preparedness training for elders of The Absentee Shawnee Tribe at local community centers. The sessions will improve emergency readiness by offering transportation, weather radios and clear instructions on preparedness tools.

Bushnell, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Disaster preparedness training will focus on older veterans in rural communities. Participants will receive radios and kits that improve access to emergency alerts.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

New York, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Access to high-speed internet

Description: Older adults in a intergenerational housing lacked in-unit internet, leaving them isolated and unable to access virtual programs during the pandemic. The project installed network hardware to provide free Wi-Fi in apartments on three floors, benefiting 30 residents. A Q&A breakfast introduced the upgrade, which now enables older adults to join online counseling, skills-building and social activities from home. This improvement bridges the digital divide, enhances independence and helps residents maintain vital connections and access essential resources without leaving their apartments.

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

Bronx, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: The Morris Community Garden had suffered years of neglect, and the abandoned site was overrun with rats. To breathe new live into the space, BronxWorks restored the garden, located near a senior center and three schools. They renamed the space Bean Morris Garden to memorialize a young man from the neighborhood. To welcome people of all ages and abilities, the nonprofit added accessible seating to the space, along with raised garden beds. Since the renovation, residents of all ages have volunteered to tend to the plots. Organizers say the amenity offers an important outdoor gathering space for the community.

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