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Pinones Aprende y Emprende (2025) Print
2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
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.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Richford, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Richford lacked outdoor spaces for older adults to socialize and stay active, leaving many isolated despite frequent visits to the health center. The project created an outdoor Welcome Center with seating, raised garden beds, an informational kiosk and a lending pantry. Weather-resistant tables and umbrellas encourage outdoor meals and community interaction. Residents now enjoy a scenic, accessible space for gatherings and health-focused events. One staff member shared how his mother, a housing tenant, now joins him for lunch outside-a simple change fostering connection and well-being.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Charleston, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Handrails, ramps, lighting, seating and marked pathways will be installed around a ministry facility. These exterior upgrades will make food pantry visits and volunteer activities safer and more comfortable for people with mobility needs.
Blytheville, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: An ADA accessible outdoor classroom with gardens and activity areas will be created at the local Senior Citizens Center. The space will support learning, social interaction and low-impact outdoor use.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Loiza, PR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Improved wayfinding
Description: Older adults in Loiza often rely on bicycles to reach health centers, schools and shops, but PR-187 lacked clear signage and safe infrastructure. The project marked the Canobana-Yuisa route with bike arrows, installed racks and wheel stops and added signs to promote shared-road safety. Residents celebrated the first markings, and officials plan to replicate the model in other areas. This will create safer, more connected streets that encourage active transportation for people of all ages.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
San Juan, PR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Puerto Rico often struggle with digital illiteracy, leaving them disconnected from family and vital services. Centro Ines tackled this by offering small-group courses on tablets and smartphones. Common apps for entertainment, staying connected with friends and navigation were taught, as well as skills for managing medical appointments and voting online. Volunteers provided hands-on support to build confidence. Graduates now use technology to stay in touch with loved ones, access health resources and prepare for emergencies like hurricanes. One participant noted how helpful this course has been for himself and other residents.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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