Chicago, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: The program will offer guided transit training and group rides to help older adults learn bus and train routes. Participants will gain confidence using public transportation to reach health care, stores and community destinations.

Batavia, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: Local officials and community organizations hoped to increase pedestrian and bicycle traffic in downtown Batavia. To do this, the Batavia Environmental Commission, Batavia Bicycle Commission, the WellBatavia Initiative and Batavia Maitreet undertook a research and promotional campaign. They hosted a walk and bike audit that taught residents urban biking skills, such as how to load a bike onto a public bus. The initiative then paired participants with residents of a local retirement community, as well as with families with small children, to help them learn about biking. The group produced a 15-minute video documentary presenting the town's history, showcasing its pedestrian and bike infrastructure and highlighting the need for future improvements. In 2022, Batavia announced it would create a bicycle and walking plan to improve city trails and make intersections safer.

Providence, RI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: Easy‑to‑read transit guides for older adults will be updated and printed in English and Spanish. The guides will explain how to ride buses, use fare cards and access reduced fares, helping people travel with confidence and remain independent.