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Northampton County (2025) Print
2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Northampton County addressed barriers faced by older adults as everyday services moved online. Many residents lacked the skills, support or devices needed to use the internet safely and confidently. The county hosted three in-person digital training events that offered one-on-one instruction from volunteers and students, with hands-on help tailored to individual needs such as connecting to Wi-Fi, improving device performance, protecting privacy and completing common online tasks. Eligible participants also received refurbished devices through the county device giveaway program. Older adults left with practical skills and greater confidence using digital tools to stay connected and manage daily needs. The strong response expanded demand for device distribution and reinforced the county's digital navigator approach, supporting plans to continue and grow these efforts beyond the initial events.
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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Denver, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in Montbello lacked digital skills needed to access online services and stay connected. The committee expanded its training center and delivered an eight-week program that taught computer basics, file management, word processing, spreadsheets, email and digital safety. They added five computers and integrated skills into other programs. Participants reported greater confidence and independence. One participant said that she had always feared "breaking the computer", but now uses it comfortably to manage essential tasks.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cordova, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Adults age 50-plus will take an eight‑week course that teaches basic artificial intelligence skills and digital safety. The classes will cover how AI works, how to use common tools safely and how technology can help with everyday tasks and work.
Wadesboro, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Wadesboro faced barriers to technology use, leaving many unable to connect with family or access online resources. The foundation launched TechSeniors, a six-week program offering group classes on email, video calls, social media and resume building. Participants practiced on tablets and laptops at a new learning center, supported by volunteers and a local college partnership. Graduates reported feeling more confident online and eager to keep learning, and program adjustments-such as switching to laptops for accessibility-helped ensure lasting benefits for the community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Palmer Township, PA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Palmer Township lacked an inclusive outdoor space for cultural learning and community connection. Paza partnered with the township to create a Unity Garden featuring a Native American-inspired sculpture, medicinal plants and pollinators. A wheelchair-accessible path and benches were added, and the site was dedicated with a ceremonial blessing. The garden is now a permanent feature maintained by the library for ongoing programs. "I am proud of the change that Paza has ignited," said a local leader after the township recognized Indigenous Peoples Day, signaling lasting cultural impact.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Easton, PA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Walk Audits
Description: A walk audit during the group's Healthfest revealed cracked sidewalks, blocked ramps and unsafe crossings in downtown Easton, limiting mobility for older adults. The audit led to recommendations for repairs, wheelchair-accessible paths and pedestrian-controlled signals at key intersections. Findings were shared with city officials to prompt safety improvements. "Incorporating the Walk Audit was very enlightening to help the...population of downtown Easton," organizers said, noting the effort gave residents a voice in shaping safer streets.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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