New Rockford, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: An aging building built in the 1950s limited safe, accessible recreation and raised liability concerns. The park district relocated the skating rink to All Veterans Park and installed a new ADA-accessible multi-purpose building with benches, skate racks and improved lighting. Volunteers helped finish the interior, creating a year-round hub for skating, kayaking and community events. Participation in winter activities doubled, and older adults are engaging more. "Our 50-plus people have started to get active which is what we are striving for," said a project lead, highlighting its role in fostering inclusion and health.

Missoula, MT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: To improve public health and increase residents' physical activity, the City of Missoula launched the Rx Trails program. Through the initiative, the local Parks and Recreation Department partners with local health care providers encourage patients to walk. The City worked to designate a path through McCormick Park as an Rx trail -- pathways featuring amenities including, drinking fountains, benches and accessible parking. They installed two benches and posted a map to help visitors navigate the trail. Additionally, they distributed promotional materials to residents to inform them about Rx Trails.

Hattiesburg, MS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Midtown's only public park had broken basketball hoops, little seating and no vibrant features, limiting recreation and social connection. The project transformed the space with new basketball hoops, a professionally painted court mural, two large-scale murals and four age-friendly benches along the walking track. Colorful crosswalk art improved safety and visual appeal. The park now serves as a lively gathering space for all ages. "Revitalizing and beautifying neighborhoods and parks is important work... These additions represent the power of community and working together," said a local representative.