Roanoke, VA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: To combat food insecurity, improve neighborhood safety and encourage residents to spend time outdoors, this project enhanced an existing community garden. Over several community work days volunteers installed raised beds, benches, a picnic table and portable toilet facilities. Organizers hope the improvements make the garden more accessible to people of all ages -- including older adults living in nearby apartment complexes.

Ranson, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: To create a welcoming space for older adults and foster intergenerational engagement, Ranson Community Gardens added a micro-orchard with 10 native fruit trees, a berry patch and a patio with seating. Informational signage and a nearby parking area improved accessibility, and two community events introduced the orchard to residents. The space now hosts classes and social gatherings, helping older adults connect with neighbors and nature. At a tree planting event, one longtime resident said he planned to bring his grandchildren and would think of the project every time he saw his new tree.

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

Seattle, WA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project spruced up the rooftop Pike Place Market Secret Garden, allowing volunteer gardeners to produce more fruits and vegetables there. All produce grown in the garden is provided to the Pike Market Food Bank, with nearly 500 fresh herbs and vegetables donated each year. In addition, the garden hosts intergenerational activities organized by a nearby assisted living facility, a childcare center and a preschool. The Pike Market Food Bank also received an AARP Community Challenge grant in 2019, which allowed it to install directional signage to help visitors find its hard-to-reach location. Established in 1982, the Pike Place Market Foundation aims to help low-income and unhoused Seattle residents who live in the neighborhood.