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Mountains to Molehills (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
└ Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Extreme summer heat in Alton puts older adults at risk of illness, with many unable to afford cooling. Project Cooldown installed 30 window AC units and repaired two HVAC systems for residents. Outreach through flyers and partnerships connected volunteers and contractors to the effort. The initiative also uncovered broader housing repair needs and strengthened local networks for future projects. One recipient shared how very thankful she was, and had confidence that she would survive the summer because she could now stay cool.
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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Pinellas County, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: The Florida Dream Center helps older adults in Pinellas County age in place, relying on federal grants and other funding sources to assist with home repairs and modifications. However, this funding is typically limited, meaning the nonprofit can only improve homes belonging to residents over the age of 62. To serve a larger subset of older adults, the Florida Dream Center created a program for residents between the ages of 50 to 61. Modifications include installing grab bars and handrails, replacing flooring, fixing holes in exterior walls, painting, rewiring exterior lights and mitigating rodents and other pests. By tapping a wide volunteer network to help make repairs, the Center has since expanded the services it offers to older homeowners.
Grand Forks, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: Older homeowners in north Grand Forks faced mounting upkeep challenges and isolation as student rentals increased. The Bringing Generations Together program paired 38 students with 15 older households for yard work, minor repairs and mentoring, while older adults shared practical advice on homeownership. Emergency kits were distributed and community events encouraged lasting ties. The effort helped residents age in place and reduced loneliness. One student reflected, "I learned what it's like to be a good neighbor... each home has a story and history."
Buffalo, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: To help low-income families rehabilitate their homes, Habitat for Humanity Buffalo held a series of construction skills trainings. Designed to reach people without a background in construction, the workshops focused on plumbing and electrical work. Project organizers say these education efforts ensure individuals are empowered to undertake critical home repairs. Additionally, the nonprofit wanted to help its volunteers understand the communities they serve. To do this, the organization hosted training sessions on topics related to diversity, equity and inclusion. Organizers report the sessions informed Home Team volunteers about the history of low-income communities and reinforced the importance of Habitat's mission to construct affordable housing.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Ferguson, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older residents in Ferguson worried about staying safe and independent, but lacked affordable guidance on aging in place. The organization offered training on practical home modifications, energy efficiency and basic maintenance, along with digital literacy to reduce isolation. Residents learned simple changes like adding grab bars and improving lighting to prevent falls. One participant called the program a game-changer, saying these steps gave her confidence and peace of mind to remain in the home she loves.
Jerseyville, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bike Audits
Description: Jerseyville had no bike infrastructure, leaving older adults without safe routes to reach grocery stores and other essentials. Bike audits revealed critical gaps, from missing bike lanes and traffic-calming measures, to the need for signage and parking. These findings will guide a Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, expected to prompt long-term upgrades and safety education. A local cycling advocate said he was excited to see the city begin this effort, calling it an important step toward improving biking and pedestrian access.
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