Bethany Beach, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Bethany Beach Landowners Association set out to close gaps in disaster readiness for older adults in a coastal area prone to storms and evacuations. Planning was fragmented and many residents lacked clear steps for alerts, evacuation and essential documents. The association convened local leaders and ran hands-on workshops where participants enrolled in alert systems, learned Know Your Zone guidance and used checklists and calendars to plan. A central repository pushed life-saving tips to thousands and spurred new community emergency response teams. The town added a Storm Ready page and leaders pledged ongoing updates to keep preparedness front and center. Participants reported immediate action, and praised the success of the program. The project turned guidance into concrete steps that support safer decisions when the next storm threatens.

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

Rehoboth Beach, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: An ADA accessible water-filling station will be installed near the beach and recreation areas in a state park. Ready access to drinking water will help visitors stay hydrated during outdoor activities.