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Jersey City Housing Authority (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Many older adults in Hudson Gardens public housing lacked internet access and digital skills, leaving them isolated from essential services and family connections. To close this gap, the housing authority distributed Wi-Fi-enabled tablets and partnered with Hudson County Community College. Student tutors provided one-on-one lessons on email, online safety and using free broadband programs. The sessions helped 46 residents gain digital confidence and independence. One participant said the program was a "lifesaver," sharing that her bills now cost less and she can finally explore games and other tools on her new tablet.
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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Shelbyville, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in Shelbyville faced difficulty in navigating digital tools needed for daily life. The Family Life Center offered classes and personalized coaching that helped participants practice email, texting, telehealth and other essential tasks. Teens served as digital mentors, creating a patient environment where everyone could learn at their own pace. Participants said the instruction was helpful and reassuring, noting how learning simple skills made them feel more connected and independent. The project strengthened social ties, reduced isolation and positioned the Family Life Center as a trusted hub for ongoing digital inclusion and future partnerships.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Tallulah, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Tallulah faced barriers to technology access and digital skills, leaving them isolated and unable to manage online tasks. To address this, the organization renovated a former church into an accessible tech hub with ramps, lighting and restrooms, and launched Tech Savvy Seniors workshops. Participants received hands-on training for smartphones, tablets and laptops, plus ongoing drop-in support. The program reduced isolation and empowered independence, with one participant saying, "I never thought I would be able to pay my bills online, but this program has completely changed my life."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Waukegan, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older residents in Lake County lacked devices and digital skills, leaving them unable to access health resources or stay connected. To close this gap, the organization distributed 123 laptops and provided at least 12 hours of hands-on training in familiar community spaces, supported by printed guides for continued learning. Participants reported feeling less isolated, with 80% using new skills to connect with family and 25% accessing health resources. One attendee shared, "I was scared of technology... now I feel young again," reflecting the program's impact on confidence and independence.
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: 2024
Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience
Description: Older Section 3 workers struggled to shift from physically demanding jobs as Jersey City's high living costs and digital skills gap left many age 50-plus at risk of economic instability. The 50+ Workforce Transitions Program provided laptops and hands-on training to spreadsheets, documents and other useful office technology. In addition, students learned resume building, usage of social media for business connections and virtual interviewing. These, plus new skills using AI tools for crafting professional materials, helped many achieve greater confidence and digital fluency, with some already securing new roles. Continued referrals to advanced training and career services aim to sustain progress and expand networks for lasting economic resilience.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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.
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