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Literacy Volunteers of the New River Valley (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Older adults in rural Virginia faced isolation during the pandemic, lacking internet access and basic computer skills. To close this gap, the group launched a Mobile Literacy Lab stocked with laptops, hotspots and other tools to deliver classes and tutoring. Two 10-week courses and five workshops taught email basics, safe browsing and virtual meeting skills. The lab now enables older adults to manage tasks like job searches and online communication. "This one hour class helped me more than anyone else in months," said Ellen, who learned to secure her email accounts. With new partnerships and a waiting list for future classes, the lab is set to remain a cornerstone for inclusive learning.
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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Bismarck, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many adults age 50 and over wanted to build digital skills but felt unsure navigating technology and excluded by cost or unfamiliar learning environments. North Dakota's Gateway to Science responded by opening its doors to older adults through a 50 Plus Discount Day and a series of hands on digital literacy workshops offered both at the science center and inside local communities where older adults live. The workshops focused on practical topics such as scam messages, password safety and emerging tools, with small group formats that allowed for questions and individual support. Participants reported leaving with greater confidence and excitement about using what they learned with family and in daily life. Several said they arrived believing they were not digitally literate and left feeling capable and curious.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Waynesboro, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in rural Wayne County faced isolation and limited digital skills, making it hard to access online services or stay connected with family. The library offered free weekly computer classes and provided simplified tablets for home use, teaching email, internet basics and video calling. Participants practiced during sessions and at home to reinforce skills. They expressed excitement about learning and confidence in using devices for everyday tasks, showing how the program reduced isolation and improved digital access in a community with few resources.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Memphis, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: In South Memphis, many older adults lacked computer skills, leaving them disconnected from telehealth, finances and job opportunities. Mustard Seed addressed this by hosting a six-week course at its ACTION Center, covering internet safety, smartphone basics and fraud prevention, with one-on-one support from volunteers. The curriculum, co-designed with older adults and delivered in partnership with CodeCrew, gave participants practical skills for banking, shopping and virtual meetings. Graduates now feel confident using technology, and demand for intermediate classes is growing. One participant noted how much he enjoyed the class, and mentioned that the instructors were very helpful and the class made things much easier for him.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Blacksburg, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: To help downtown recover from pandemic isolation, the Association created a mural that celebrates nature and local heritage. An artist age 50-plus designed the 20-by-10-foot piece featuring Stroubles Creek and native plants, turning a blank wall into a vibrant landmark. The mural now anchors plans for an art walk and streetscape, drawing older adults and other residents into public spaces. "It was my pleasure to participate in such a great event," said one supporter, noting the mural's role in showcasing local talent and sparking renewed interest in public art.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Salem, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older adults often lacked guidance on affordable home safety upgrades and legal planning, leaving them vulnerable to falls and uncertainty about aging in place. The library hosted four expert-led workshops on topics from elder law to home modifications, drawing 122 attendees. Early participants received practical items like nightlights and jar openers, and 100 aging-in-place workbooks were distributed. Attendees said the sessions were "very informative," with one noting, "The elder law talk really helped me know what I need to do to protect myself." Afterwards, many began planning to contact local agencies or pursue safety improvements.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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