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Columbus, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet

Description: The program will deliver hands-on digital skills classes at senior housing properties. Residents will gain confidence using devices to access services, remain independent, and stay socially connected.

Buckhannon, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet

Description: Upshur County Public Library responded to gaps in broadband access and digital skills that made it difficult for older adults to manage everyday online tasks. The library purchased laptops, hotspots and a large screen TV, then launched weekly classes across multiple community sites with volunteer support. Participants showed significant gains on post-tests and often returned for more training. The project prompted expansion into nearby counties and interest from other libraries. One participant with tremors benefited from an adaptive trackball mouse, showing how tailored tools can help older adults use technology with more confidence.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Milwaukee, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet

Description: The project will offer internet access and basic computer classes for residents age 50-plus at a community hub. Older residents will gain digital skills while connecting to food and local resources.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Des Moines, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Accessory dwelling units, tiny homes and manufactured housing

Description: After the City of Des Moines updated its zoning to allow accessory dwelling units, HOME constructed the city's first ADU as a how-to demonstration for residents interested in building their own. After working with the City's planning and zoning department, the organization built the ADU on a vacant lot in the Oak Park neighborhood. The small, detached unit demonstrates an affordable housing option with benefits for a range of residents, from those who want to downsize but remain in their neighborhood, to families who need space for an aging parent, nanny or caregiver, to those looking to earn rental income. To garner community interest, HOME offered community walk-throughs and public viewings of the ADU. More Des Moines residents now have the option to add an ADU to their property. In 2022, the city council passed a measure expanding the areas where ADUs are permitted.

Des Moines, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: Six training sessions will teach adults and caregivers how to install simple home safety products. Participants will learn fall prevention strategies and receive practical supplies.

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AARP Iowa State Office

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Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50309
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Phone: 866-554-5378
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