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Durbin, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Durbin faced unsafe walking conditions after dark, with steep roads and few sidewalks, discouraging outdoor activity for older adults. To address this, the town repaired a hazardous stairway to Main Street, added benches throughout town, installed a wheelchair-accessible picnic table and placed ADA-compliant trash receptacles. These improvements made public spaces safer and more inviting, encouraging residents to walk and gather. A former mayor noted appreciation for the safer stairway, saying it showed the community that "someone does care" and sparked hope for continued revitalization.

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

Chicago, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Public plazas are not always grand sometimes they can make a big impact in a tiny space. The Rogers Park Business Alliance and other project organizers purchased a pop-up People Spot from the nearby Chicago neighborhood of Andersonville. The Alliance then deployed the People Spot on Clark Street, with the aim of amping up pedestrian engagement along Rogers Parks' commercial corridor. Also known as a parklet, the mini plaza extends from the sidewalk in what would otherwise be a parking space. Featuring new wood benches and greenery, the parklet offers visitors a pleasant spot to rest or eat lunch. In the future, the Alliance will move the pop-up plaza to different locations throughout the Rogers Park neighborhood.

Browning, MT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project enhanced the Eagle Shield Senior Center's outdoor space, adding canopy swings, as well as fencing and landscaping. Project organizers hope the outdoor area becomes an age-friendly gathering space, giving Blackfeet elders a place to share their culture and language with each other -- and with future generations.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Wetumpka, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Disaster preparedness sessions will take place at two rural centers for older adults in Wetumpka. Participants will receive supply kits and guidance that supports safer decision-making during emergencies.

Montgomery, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: An ADA accessible riverfront stage with seating, lighting and wayfinding will be constructed. The venue will support live music and other public events.

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