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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.
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Denver, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Technology upgrades and expanded computer classes will enhance a learning center for older adults. Participants will better manage personal projects and digital tasks.
Houston, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Houston's low-income apartments lacked devices and digital skills, limiting access to telehealth and social engagement. UHD distributed 99 tablets and hosted seven training events where students taught the participants to navigate apps, protect against scams and use tools for health and communication. Residents now use tablets for essential tasks and social activities, reducing isolation and improving access to care. The program also fostered intergenerational connections and plans ongoing tutorials to sustain impact.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Northampton, PA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Northampton County addressed barriers faced by older adults as everyday services moved online. Many residents lacked the skills, support or devices needed to use the internet safely and confidently. The county hosted three in-person digital training events that offered one-on-one instruction from volunteers and students, with hands-on help tailored to individual needs such as connecting to Wi-Fi, improving device performance, protecting privacy and completing common online tasks. Eligible participants also received refurbished devices through the county device giveaway program. Older adults left with practical skills and greater confidence using digital tools to stay connected and manage daily needs. The strong response expanded demand for device distribution and reinforced the county's digital navigator approach, supporting plans to continue and grow these efforts beyond the initial events.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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.
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