Duluth, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: Older adults in Duluth faced barriers to healthy food and social connection, especially in neighborhoods with few events and limited transit. To address this, the organization expanded its farmers markets by adding social zones with tables, games and art supplies, and completed two murals in areas lacking public art. Staff also took anti-age discrimination training and recruited older volunteers to lead activities. The project deepened engagement, improved food access and brightened community spaces. One visitor said, "The murals completely change the feeling of the park... really livens it up and matches the energy of the markets better."

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

Caribou, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: Caribou faced a hidden crisis of abuse of older adults, and volunteers were without tools to educate or intervene. The group built a multimedia toolkit with expert-backed content, video vignettes and safety features to guide prevention and reporting. The resource will be shared statewide and used in local programs, strengthening community capacity to protect older adults and empowering them to speak up and access help.

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

Pine Ridge, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: On the Pine Ridge Reservation, families often travel 90 miles for fresh food, fueling health disparities. To address this, the Community Farmers Market expanded a food sovereignty program with garden plots, cooking demos and cultural education. Elders taught students traditional planting and food preparation, while events featured produce sales and spaces for socializing. The market improved access to nutritious food and strengthened intergenerational ties. Students gained farming and business skills, and elders shared cultural knowledge. One attendee said the program "provides a space for elders, parents and children to come together," fostering pride and self-sufficiency.

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