Anderson, SC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: To expose locals to art and grow food for people in need, Anderson Arts Center beautified its campus by creating a new mural and community garden. The first mural in Anderson, it depicts a rabbit alongside a colorful fruit and vegetables. Since its completion, it has inspired other local organizations to create their own murals around town. Project organizers say within the garden's first year, the Center taught nearly 500 children about growing fresh vegetables. The Arts Center, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, hosts gallery exhibitions featuring regional, national and international artists, orchestrates downtown public arts projects and is home to a summer arts camp and arts school for children and adults.

Providence, RI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project engaged young people to grow herbs and vegetables which were given to older adults. It also helped create a second cookbook that preserves the older adults' recipes and stories.

Woodbury, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project will make improvements to a community garden, allowing older adults and people with disabilities to use the space. Enhancements will include ADA-compliant raised beds, signage and new gardening tools.