St. Mary, LA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The Rivercane Senior Center lacked a safe outdoor space where older adults could spend time outside, gather comfortably and stay connected to community life. The project added raised-bed gardens, seating, solar lights and a concrete slab with a full-cover canopy that created a protected area for activity and social interaction. These improvements made it easier for older adults to be outdoors and opened new opportunities for intergenerational volunteering. The space is expected to support more physical activity and social engagement, and one resident has already expressed eagerness to start gardening when weather allows. Future additions such as new lighting, fans and running water will help the area function year-round and strengthen long-term use.

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

Akron, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Older adults in North Hill had few accessible public places to gather as longtime meeting spots faded and social isolation grew. Residents age 50 and over, including people from immigrant and refugee communities, lacked outdoor spaces that reflected their culture and supported everyday social connection. North Hill Community Development Corporation addressed this gap by transforming an underused area into the Howard Street Heritage Courtyard, a walkable public plaza shaped directly by older residents. Participants helped guide mural themes, seating and programming. The space added benches, walking paths, lighting and public art to support rest and conversation. The courtyard now serves as a permanent gathering place where older adults remain visible participants in neighborhood life. Cultural stories embedded in the art and events encourage intergenerational connection and reduce isolation.

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

Loiza, PR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Older adults in Torrecilla Baja lacked a free, accessible outdoor place to gather, be active and take part in wellness programs. The project built the Gazebo Amor Mayor at the community center, adding accessible benches and game tables, raised garden beds and solar lighting. Older residents helped through volunteering and a wellness planting workshop. The gazebo created a permanent gathering place that reduces isolation and supports ongoing wellness, cultural and intergenerational activities.

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