Elyria, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Older adults in Lorain County often lacked disaster preparedness resources and faced transportation barriers that made it hard to get emergency supplies. Neighborhood Alliance used its Mobile Seniors program to deliver customized preparedness kits directly to these residents, including essential items and guidance from the county emergency management agency. Community partners and volunteers added supplies, expanding the effort. The kits increased safety and confidence, and one recipient said, "For the first time, I feel like I have a plan..." The program also strengthened ongoing wellness checks and created a model that can continue through community support.

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

Manning, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Recent flooding and tornadoes in nearby communities underscored how unprepared many residents were for emergencies. For older adults, the lack of clear plans, supplies and shared guidance increased risks during fast-moving disasters. The City of Manning addressed this by assembling household emergency preparedness kits and hosting trainings that focused on practical steps residents could take before an emergency occurs. Attendance grew steadily as participants shared their experiences with friends, prompting additional sessions and locations. The project also extended beyond households by creating volunteer response kits and engaging workplaces and community partners. These conversations led many organizations to review their own plans and strengthened coordination with emergency responders, helping shift preparedness from a one-time lesson into an ongoing community effort.

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

Keiser, AR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Hands‑on disaster readiness training will help Keiser residents age 50 and older prepare for local emergencies. Shared activities will encourage neighborhood involvement and preparedness.