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Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Park enhancements
└ Park enhancements
Newton lacked safe green space near its industrial corridor, limiting recreation and nature access for older adults and nearby residents. The alliance converted an unused parcel into a wetland park with walkways, benches, educational signage and birding-by-ear features for visitors with low vision. Volunteers age 50-plus helped collect native seeds, and solar lighting improved safety. The park now offers legal access to a popular birding site and is expected to serve as an outdoor classroom. "Time spent in nature has been shown to reduce incidents of chronic disease... as well as improving mental health," said a local health leader.
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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Richlands, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Park enhancements
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
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Rossville, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Trails
Description: Rossville lacked safe spaces for outdoor exercise, leaving older adults without options for physical activity away from traffic. Responding to community requests, the foundation built a quarter-mile concrete trail near the fire department and high school, added trees for shade, and installed an ADA-compliant bench for resting and socializing. The new trail offers a safe route for walking and biking, encouraging health and connection. It also sparked plans for expansion and secured funding for future phases, reinforcing the town's commitment to active living.
Topeka, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: Food insecurity and poor nutrition challenged older adults in Topeka. The organization built a temperature-controlled greenhouse and picnic area to provide fresh produce year-round and a space for social connection. Residents learned gardening techniques and shared crops, while volunteers installed benches and solar lighting. "Standing back and seeing the final product was rewarding," said a project lead. The greenhouse now supports cooking classes and partnerships with local gardens, creating long-term access to healthy food and education on nutrition.
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