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Rendezvous Senior Day Service (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
Rendezvous Senior Day Service turned part of its parking lot into a thriving garden to combat isolation and promote wellness among older adults. Six raised beds and more than 100 flower containers made gardening accessible, while volunteers and other participants planted vegetables and native Haida potatoes. Intergenerational activities brought local children to help with seed planting, creating bonds across ages. The garden became a peaceful retreat for reflection and recovery. It has hosted community picnics and drew visitors from near and far. Participants reported improved health and socialization, proving the space is more than a garden-it's a catalyst for connection.
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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Indianapolis, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: A neglected garden limited opportunities for older adults and caregivers to connect and enjoy outdoor activities. The project revitalized the space with raised beds for accessibility. It also partnered with master gardeners, Boy Scouts and nonprofits to bring volunteers for maintenance and education. Residents learned to plant and harvest produce, turning the garden into a place to sit, talk and share experiences. One participant said, "Thanks for teaching me how to garden this summer. I had no idea how much fun it was. I can't wait to teach my grandkids next summer." Plans include expanding beds and hosting community events to strengthen ties.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Eufaula, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: When a local garden closed during the pandemic, older adults and low-income families lost access to fresh produce and a vital community resource. To fill the gap, volunteers created a new garden with raised beds for vegetables and flowers plus accessible benches. They partnered with Twelve Stones to revive gardening efforts and teach maintenance skills for sustainability. The garden now provides nutritious food for families and older adults, supports healthy living and reconnects residents after years without a shared space. Volunteers said they they truly appreciate something in the community that could help provide fresh vegetables for local families.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Rushville, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The project addressed the lack of an accessible outdoor space where older adults and other residents could garden, participate in group therapy or spend quiet time in nature. Many lived in apartments or assisted living and had no way to maintain a garden of their own. Raised and wheelchair-accessible beds created a welcoming place to grow food, build skills and contribute produce to a 24-hour pantry that helps residents on limited incomes. The garden strengthened social connection and encouraged regular visits, improving well-being through meaningful activity. One participant who used the accessible beds said, "It's been wonderful. I enjoyed it very much."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
AK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Accessory dwelling units, tiny homes and manufactured housing
Description: Alaska faces a fast-growing older population and a shortage of affordable housing, yet many municipalities lack ordinances for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). To address this, the league researched statewide policies, created a best practices guide and ordinance template, and shared strategies through targeted outreach. The effort prompted interest from local leaders, with communities planning ADU ordinances and requesting technical assistance. "We loved having an easy-to-read publication that was Alaska specific", one council member said, underscoring how the project simplified complex housing issues and accelerated local action.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Anchorage, AK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
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