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Rebuilding Together Broward County (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ HomeFit Modifications
└ HomeFit Modifications
Unsafe homes left many older adults at risk of falls and fire hazards. The group upgraded 20 homes with grab bars, stair railings, smoke detectors and motion-sensor lighting, while also adding adaptive showerheads and replacing unsafe outlets. These changes improved safety and independence for residents. One recipient said that the grab bars installed after his stroke made him feel secure and mobile again. Another home received railings after a fall, preventing future accidents and ensuring peace of mind for the family.
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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Rocky Mount, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County addressed safety hazards that made daily tasks hard for older adults and put independence at risk. The team integrated HomeFit and safety assessments into every repair visit, adding practical upgrades like low-entry showers with grab bars and flooring fixes for three families that included five people age 50-plus. A construction manager now conducts an accessibility review on each project, and outreach boosted applications, revealing wider need. The new process is standard practice and strengthens evidence for funders. One resident said showering is "very easy" now and praised the crew for a "wonderful job."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Evansville, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Missing handrails or grab bars made routine movement at home unsafe for many older adults and in some cases kept them from leaving their houses. Community One addressed this risk through its Neighbors Helping Neighbors Program by installing handrails and grab bars in local homes and purchasing materials for future projects. Volunteer-led installations focused on practical fixes at entryways, stairs and bathrooms. One resident said that without a handrail, leaving her home felt dangerous, but after installation she felt relief and could move safely. The work reduced fall risk, supported aging in place and built a trained volunteer base for ongoing support.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Santa Cruz, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Many older adults in Santa Cruz County lacked clear guidance on preventing falls and had limited access to affordable home modifications that help them stay safe. The Volunteer Center held six fall-prevention workshops, including an online option for homebound residents, and partnered with local organizations to widen outreach. Through its Helping Hands program, volunteers installed 137 safety upgrades such as grab bars, railings and grip tape, making daily movement more secure. These permanent modifications supported long-term aging in place. One participant said the grab bars made their shower "feel safer... it's been a gift," highlighting how targeted improvements increased confidence and comfort at home.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Miami, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Trails
Description: Friends of the Commodore Trail addressed safety barriers that made reaching and using the trail feel intimidating, especially for older adults navigating fast traffic, curb obstacles and unclear routes. These conditions reduced confidence and limited use of a corridor that connects neighborhoods, parks and daily destinations. The project introduced visible safety improvements, including wayfinding signs, temporary curb ramps, crossing safety flags, traffic-calming pop-ups and targeted clean-ups that reduced immediate trip hazards. Many older adults were involved as participants and volunteers. One resident, speaking about the improved crossings and signage, said, "Now I don't hesitate. I walk more, I feel safer, and I see people I know almost every time I'm out." Several pilots are already informing permanent crosswalk and curb designs, strengthening long-term access and safer shared use of the Trail.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Wilton Manors, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Coral Gardens Park was underused and unsafe after dark, leaving older residents without a pleasant outdoor space for socializing. The association installed landscape lighting, planted ferns, built a Little Free Library and erected a new park sign. The park was renamed Lieber Park through a community vote and celebrated with a block party. The upgrades transformed the park into a welcoming space used more frequently, including at night. Residents praised the improvements, saying, "It's not a dark park anymore!" The project sparked plans for art installations and regular social events to keep the park active.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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