AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
The Latino Community Association (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Older adults in Central Oregon faced a widening digital divide, leaving them unable to access health care or manage daily tasks. The Computer Literacy Program offered classes and tutoring across multiple locations, enrolling 96 participants, more than half of whom were age 50-plus. It taught skills from device basics to advanced applications. Volunteers, all older adults, created a peer-learning environment that built confidence and independence. One instructor noted, "They have all become very good friends and enjoy taking the classes together," showing how the program strengthened community ties.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
New York City, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: In Southeast Queens, many older adults face a digital divide that limits access to health care and social connection. Forestdales Baby Genius program paired older adults with tech-savvy youth for hands-on training, teaching skills like texting, email attachments and app downloads. Ten youth tutors worked with 50 older adults in one-on-one sessions, while workshops and events reached more than 700 participants. The program reduced isolation and built confidence, enabling older adults to use telehealth and connect with family. One participant said learning to video chat with her daughter using her phone was "life-changing," and demand for more sessions continues to grow.
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."
El Dorado, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Union County's digital divide left many older adults without internet access or basic tech skills, limiting their ability to bank online or connect with family. SouthArk launched SouthArk Connections, hosting six classes on computer basics, cybersecurity and financial literacy, and provided laptops for use beyond class time. Specialized sessions supported veterans and people with disabilities. Participants gained confidence and reduced isolation, with partnerships ensuring ongoing classes and outreach. One attendee said, "This class has helped me feel more comfortable with computers...I'm so thankful for this class and our wonderful instructor."
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Prineville, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: When organizers with Crook County on the Move asked older adults what they would like to see in Ochoco Creek Park, they overwhelmingly asked for more places to sit along the park's 1.5-mile pathway. So to increase accessibility, the organization installed 12 park benches at 300 foot intervals along the walkway. Each bench has a 4-foot space surrounding it to accommodate wheelchair users and give people a space to park walkers and strollers. Organizers hope the benches inspire older adults and people with mobility challenges to visit the park and reap the benefits of outdoor exercise. Spurred by the success of this project, Crook County on the Move fundraised to install an additional 12 benches along the path. Organizers say they are now looking to install benches in other parks around Crook County.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Oregon State Office
9200 SE Sunnybrook Boulevard
Suite 410
Clackamas (Portland), OR 97015
United States