Providence, RI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Older adults facing food insecurity and contaminated soil needed a safe way to grow produce and connect with others. Teaching straw bale gardening gave residents a low impact method that required no heavy tools or bending. Volunteers and older adults prepared the bales, planted vegetables and shared harvests, strengthening ties and reducing isolation. Returning participants showed how meaningful the project had become. Some participants watched produce closely, hoping to pick it when ripe. Preparing the site for next spring ensures continuity and encourages participants to try the method at home.

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

Portsmouth, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project will create a community garden with raised garden beds and vertical gardens to enable older residents of local senior housing communities to grow their own food.

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

St. Louis, MO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project designed and built two areas for peaceful reflection within a community garden--one with a wooden arbor and vining fruit, the other with a fountain and Zimbabwean sculpture. Both include seating.

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