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Pottsboro Library (2025) Print
2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Expanding High-Speed Internet
└ Expanding High-Speed Internet
Many older adults in Pottsboro struggled with online tasks that are now essential for staying connected and accessing services. The library strengthened its Digital Navigator Program by offering one-on-one tech help, monthly Tech Tuesday sessions and a Cybersecurity Open House. Participants learned basic computer skills, safe social media use and how to avoid scams, while some received laptops or tablets to support ongoing learning. One participant who lost access to her hacked account said she was relieved and excited to be back in touch after staff helped her recover safely. The program is now a permanent service and will expand through mobile outreach and advanced workshops, giving older adults lasting support as they build confidence online.
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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Mount Vernon, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet
Description: NewFlex Youth Programs addressed digital skill gaps that left many older adults struggling to use smartphones and tablets for everyday tasks, limiting communication and access to essential services. The project delivered hands-on, one-on-one technology support through intergenerational workshops. Youth interns and students met older adults in familiar community spaces and provided personalized help with messaging, email, apps and device navigation. As the program evolved, structured scheduling and hybrid options expanded access while reinforcing skills already learned. The approach built trust and normalized asking for help, leading to repeat participation and older adults proactively requesting sessions. One participant, a board member age 50 and over, said individualized instruction finally helped her master tasks she had struggled with for years and motivated her to continue learning after receiving a session summary and certificate.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cleveland, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet
Description: This project will help 210 older adult residents in age-restricted apartments sign up for affordable internet service and provide basic computer skills training.
Dale, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet
Description: The center will install free public Wi-Fi and offer bilingual internet safety classes for older adults. Residents will use online tools for health, benefits and family connection while learning safe habits.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Tishomingo, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Access to health care services
Description: The Southern Oklahoma Library System introduced a telehealth pod to reduce barriers for older adults who often travel hundreds of miles for routine care. The private space, equipped with computers, medical devices and adjustable seating, allows residents to access specialists without leaving town. Beyond health care, the pod supports legal and financial consultations, expanding its impact. One user with hearing difficulty reported a successful virtual visit thanks to the pod's bright lighting and large screen-an improvement over previous struggles with small devices. The project is paving the way for additional pods in rural libraries.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Allen, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Micromobility enhancements/management
Description: To encourage older residents to become more active and use the local trail system, the City of Allen purchased six adult electric tricycles for the Allen Senior Recreation Center. Center members can check out the trikes to use when weather permits. The tricycles provide supplementary electric power to assist with peddling when needed, enabling users with varying mobility levels to ride them. To get the lending program started, City built a storage facility for the tricycles and offered a skills class for riders. Additionally, they provided helmets, orange safety flags and bike locks. Although motorized vehicles typically aren't typically allowed on Allen's nearby Cottonwood Creek Hike/Bike trail, the City has made an exception for the trikes.
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