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New Rockford Park District (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Park enhancements
└ Park enhancements
An aging building built in the 1950s limited safe, accessible recreation and raised liability concerns. The park district relocated the skating rink to All Veterans Park and installed a new ADA-accessible multi-purpose building with benches, skate racks and improved lighting. Volunteers helped finish the interior, creating a year-round hub for skating, kayaking and community events. Participation in winter activities doubled, and older adults are engaging more. "Our 50-plus people have started to get active which is what we are striving for," said a project lead, highlighting its role in fostering inclusion and health.
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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Paonia, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: The Town of Paonia made several improvements to Poulos Park, including construction of an accessible path, repairs to a wall, installation of new lighting and the addition of a conversation circle bench designed by local artists. The town also received the donation of a bronze sculpture to display in the park. Since these upgrades, a local theater company now uses the outdoor space, which also acts as a concert venue.
Tolland, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: To give older adults in Tolland an outdoor space to gather and spend time, the Tolland Conservation Commission created a new park. The Commission worked with landscape architecture students at University of Connecticut to design Wanat Senior Park, a 13-acre area with accessible woodland trails, space for stargazing, a wheelchair-accessible meadow trail and meditative labyrinth. Engagement with older adults, including a design charrette and guided site tour, informed plans for the park. Volunteers of all ages planted vegetation and helped install hardscaping. The park features a pollinator garden, ADA-compliant benches and a variety of native plants. Public art -- including a sculpture of a heron and a sundial -- welcome visitors to the space.
West Union, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: A community garden will be created at a scenic nature preserve. The garden will provide a quiet outdoor space for visitors, especially adults age 50-plus, to connect with nature, reduce stress and improve well‑being.
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Carrington, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: The first phase of a public garden enhancement will add smooth concrete walkways and resting spots to create clear, accessible movement. These features will make it easier to walk through the gardens and spend time outdoors near downtown services.
Fort Totten, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital Connections Other
Description: High‑speed internet, computers and printers will be added to two local Senior Centers. Guided workshops will help adults age 50-plus build digital skills and reduce isolation by providing reliable access to online resources.
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