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New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity Inc. (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
A neighborhood playground in Musicians Village had fallen into disrepair, leaving older adults and families without a safe space to gather. Volunteers replaced damaged equipment and added two new play structures. They also installed an accessible picnic table and built a new fence to restore safety and appeal. Monthly cleanups removed hazards like broken glass, and community events drew residents back to the park. The upgrades transformed the site into a welcoming space for multigenerational activity. This prompted additional city funding for future improvements, signaling long-term investment in neighborhood livability.
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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West Chester, PA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The West Chester library's terrace was an empty walkway, leaving older adults without a safe outdoor space to read, socialize or access Wi-Fi. The project installed three permanent tables with seating, including an ADA-accessible option, added umbrellas for shade and a security camera for safety. The terrace now hosts programs and casual gatherings, expanding the librarys footprint. One ukulele club member said, "Finally, this beautiful terrace can be enjoyed!"
Ossipee, NH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The park lacked shade and shelter, leaving older adults and families exposed to sun and rain. Volunteers built a 12-by-16-foot pavilion and added an ADA-compliant picnic table and benches, contributing more than 500 hours to the effort. The pavilion now serves as a safe, year-round gathering spot for meetings and celebrations. One resident stated that now "we see people using the park almost every hour of the day. "
Klamath Falls, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Downtown Klamath Falls had dark, uninviting alleyways that discouraged foot traffic and community engagement. The project installed a mosaic mural created by older adults and additional artwork by local artists on a downtown building. Participants painted individual tiles during four sessions at the center, and the finished piece was unveiled at a celebratory event. The murals brighten alleyways, encourage pedestrian use and foster a sense of pride and inclusion among older adults. "I was so glad to be involved on this project," said one participant.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: This project will engage local older adults to ensure their needs are considered in efforts to redesign several bus shelters across the city. The Committee seeks to make public transit accessible, safe, comfortable and climate-resilient for people of all ages.
New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: In New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward, many residents lack access to public outdoor spaces. To provide additional recreational areas and bolster intergenerational connections for residents, the Sankofa Community Development Corporation improved Sankofa Wetland Park and Nature Trail, clearing overgrown grass, fallen trees and other obstructions from the water's edge. Project organizers also installed benches and bike racks and bought new fishing equipment for visitors to use in the park. Fishing has great cultural significance to the residents of this neighborhood and provides a way for elders to bond with and mentor local youth.
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