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Hubbertville Community Foundation (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
The project addressed the lack of a safe place for exercise and social interaction, especially for older adults who previously walked along busy highways or stayed inactive due to limited options. It created a welcoming outdoor area with a covered gathering space, playground equipment and seating, along with added features that encouraged grandparents and families to spend time together. The improvements strengthened community ties and provided a reliable place for residents to meet and reconnect. As one resident said, "Having this new space in our community is wonderful... I get to sit in the swing and read a book or visit with a neighbor."
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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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
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Oakland, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
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Hammond, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Morrison Alley's pocket park had become overgrown and nearly unusable, leaving older adults and visitors without a safe, welcoming space downtown. The city cleared the area, added five tables including an ADA-accessible option, installed dwarf azaleas and mulch to protect the park's Live Oak and placed waste receptacles to keep it clean. Within hours of installation, residents were gathering for lunch and conversation. "I love it!" one visitor said, reflecting broad enthusiasm for the transformation. The city plans further ADA upgrades, ensuring the park remains a vibrant hub for community connection.
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Dora, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: Inflation and the end of pandemic SNAP benefits left many older adults struggling to afford food, with demand for assistance soaring. Mission of Hope responded by distributing groceries to over 5,000 people and purchasing steel carts to help volunteers move supplies efficiently. About 100 volunteers were trained to pack and deliver food, easing strain and speeding service. For homebound clients, weekly deliveries brought more than meals-one wrote, "These red bags of goodies sure can cheer a fellow up... It's just like Christmas."
Moulton, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To revitalize Moulton's downtown area, Moulton Lions Club created parklets, a mural and temporary, artistic crosswalks. The mural is located along Bylar Road -- the area's oldest public road -- and showcases the route's history. To Project organizers also outfitted several parklets with movable benches, chairs and umbrellas to increase foot traffic and provide rest and shade during events, including the annual Strawberry Festival. In addition, the Lions Club created artistic crosswalks with sidewalk chalk. Each had a local theme, from educating locals about endangered salamanders to paying homage to local resident Jesse Owen, who competed at the 1936 Olympics. Lions Club organizers says they hope the project will spur residents to consider how art can make public spaces more appealing.
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