Camden, SC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Camden's Main Street program transformed the city's Broad Street alley into a vibrant throughway for shoppers and diners. To involve community members in the makeover, the City invited residents to the space to create stained glass-like globes out of tissue paper. By hanging the completed art pieces and adding LED string lights and shade canopies, the City created a decorative, open ceiling to the alley. They later added benches and planters to create an outdoor gathering space. It's wonderful to see the residents who created pieces strolling through the alley and pointing out to friends and family where their piece is located, Camden Main Street Program Manager Katherine Spadacenta said.

Amherst, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will add seating, lighting, and greenery to create a safer, more accessible, and inviting plaza. This revitalized area near senior housing and a community center will foster social connections for older adults.

Woodbury, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The grant will support LOT 323, a creative placemaking pop-up park that features music and arts and crafts events for residents aged 50 by partnering with senior housing and senior centers, as well as assisted living facilities.