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Sagadahoc, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Older adults across several communities expressed fear and uncertainty about emergencies, with many lacking preparedness plans or clear information about local resources. Age-Friendly Communities of the Lower Kennebec hosted six listening sessions where participants shared experiences and concerns about disasters. The conversations emphasized communication, evacuation routes and the importance of checking on neighbors. These led to increased signups for the county emergency notification system. By partnering with county emergency management and centering older adults voices, the project energized communities to begin developing local response plans and laid the groundwork for coordinated preparedness efforts.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Grand Rapids, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Community leaders will be trained to deliver ongoing disaster preparedness education. Adults age 50 and older will receive planning tools and supplies.

Ocean View, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Preparedness training will teach self‑reliance skills for major emergency events. Participants will learn how to assist neighbors when first responders are limited.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Ithaca, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Walk audits will examine sidewalk and crossing conditions near Ithaca’s downtown bus stations. Findings will inform design and placemaking efforts that support safer travel for older adults.

Dryden, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Trails

Description: To encourage people to use the Dryden Rail Trail, the Town of Dryden set out to provide resting places and information along the trail. They installed seven benches and three kiosks along the 2.9-mile path, which connects the villages of Dryden and Freeville. The kiosks display maps, trail rules and more. Today, the Town Recreation Department offers intergenerational programming on the trail, including fitness walks, bike outings and community running events.

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