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Marti Stevens Interactive Improvisational Theater (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Engaging residents in vibrant public places
└ Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Older adults in Central Maine face barriers to aging in place, from transportation to food insecurity, often hidden from public view. The project staged interactive performances based on real scenarios, inviting audiences to question actors and suggest solutions. Ideas like volunteer driver programs emerged, and feedback was shared with partners and media. "I learned how important community support is to the 50-plus community," one participant said, noting the emotional impact of seeing these struggles portrayed. Plans include training older adults to lead future performances, extending the dialogue.
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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Manning, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Description: Manning City Hall possesses a collection of important historical artifacts, but because of space constraints, most of them were kept in storage in the building's basement. To allow residents to see the items, the City of Manning installed eighteen glass display cases and placed them throughout the community, creating a reverse museum tour. They distributed brochures explaining how a reverse museum helps display artifacts without the cost of building a standalone facility. The leaflets also give information on the artifacts displayed, which range from small trinkets to World War II nurse's uniforms. Project organizers say the displays have inspired residents to explore their own basements and attics in search of more items to donate. The project also sparked the local library to open a designated room -- dubbed the vault -- to host larger exhibits.
Athens, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Description: Athens has a rich African American history that spans many generations, yet has lacked an appropriate venue to share its stories. The Downtown Athens Development Authority created a permanent exhibit at the Ware-Lydon House Museum about people enslaved in the region, which also featured stories about their descendants. The exhibit was developed alongside the museum's new, 40-volume African American heritage library and community conversation area, which includes tables and chairs where visitors can gather. Additionally, the Authority developed the first section of an African American Heritage Pathway walking tour, which travels between the museum and the home of one of the first vaudeville theaters in the U.S. built, owned, and operated by a Black entrepreneur.
Reno, NV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Description: Guided group walks will be offered in parks and along the river for adults age 50-plus. Led by trained staff, the walks will provide safe routes, rest breaks and chances for light exercise and social connection.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Chelsea, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Older adults in Chelsea had few accessible spaces for social connection or healthy activities, leaving many isolated. The project transformed a schoolyard into an intergenerational garden with eight wheelchair-accessible raised beds, a convertible bench and a canopy. Residents and students planted, harvested and shared produce, which supplied the local food bank and monthly luncheons. Donations and repeat visits showed strong community engagement. Future plans include expanding raised beds and adding a permanent structure for year-round use.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Hallowell, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Transportation Other
Description: The city will install flashing stop signs at key intersections and rotate portable speed feedback signs at village entrances. These measures will slow traffic and make crossings safer downtown and in surrounding residential areas.
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