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San Francisco, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Digital navigation skills

Description: Many older adults in San Francisco struggled with technology-not because they lacked devices, but because they lacked help. To meet that need, SF Tech Council organized five multilingual "Tech Support Popups" that offered free one-on-one assistance in neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Tenderloin. Nearly 100 volunteers helped more than 200 residents update devices, remove viruses and sign up for affordable internet programs. The events built digital confidence and community connections, inspiring agencies to explore permanent tech help services. One Cantonese-speaking participant said she finally felt "heard" while learning to use her phone to stay in touch with her children.

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

Jamestown, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Digital navigation skills

Description: Many older adults in the community faced barriers to staying connected, from limited transportation to difficulty using digital tools. The center expanded learning opportunities by offering Technology for Seniors classes with new laptops and a Computer Corner, along with gardening workshops supported by raised beds, tools and plant lights. Participants practiced hands-on skills, grew flowers they later shared with others and gained confidence using computers to stay in touch with family. These programs continue to grow and will expand further once the center moves to a larger facility, creating ongoing opportunities for community members to build skills and maintain independence.

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

Wadesboro, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Digital navigation skills

Description: Older adults in Wadesboro faced barriers to technology use, leaving many unable to connect with family or access online resources. The foundation launched TechSeniors, a six-week program offering group classes on email, video calls, social media and resume building. Participants practiced on tablets and laptops at a new learning center, supported by volunteers and a local college partnership. Graduates reported feeling more confident online and eager to keep learning, and program adjustments-such as switching to laptops for accessibility-helped ensure lasting benefits for the community.

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

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Jersey City, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: To give residents at Marion Gardens the opportunity to gather, project organizers beautified a concrete area onsite. Residents of the public housing complex came together to plant trees, shrubs and flowers in an area of the property prone to flooding, with the new foliage acting as green infrastructure to absorb rainwater. To ensure care of the new trees long-term, project organizers also created a tree maintenance manual with pruning techniques and other tips. Since the planting, organizers have worked to plan a mural at the site.

New York, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Developing projects based on residents' priorities

Description: Older adults in low-income neighborhoods faced isolation and limited access to cultural programs, challenges worsened by the pandemic. The Grandparent Resource Center expanded its Intergenerational Cultural Workshop Series to four NYCHA sites, hosting 16 sessions on dance, mosaics and other arts. Outreach engaged residents age 50-plus and their families. The workshops strengthened family bonds and community ties, with participants feeling more connected. "I would love to see more classes like this, it helps people stay connected," said one attendee. Plans are underway to secure funding for future sessions.

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

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