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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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Spokane, WA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The project addressed the shortage of accessible gardening space for older adults and other residents who wanted a nearby place to grow food and connect with others in Spokane. Adding new raised beds expanded opportunities for people to garden without bending or lifting, and recruitment focused on participants from the community center. The expansion strengthened interest in the garden, encouraged new gardeners to join and helped lay the groundwork for future upgrades, including plans for an accessible path and a composting station. A neighbor who saw the beds being built said she looked forward to having a place close to home where her family could grow food.
St. Louis, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Residents lacked nearby spaces for relaxation and wellness, forcing older adults to travel for peaceful outdoor areas. The project added two tranquil spaces to Bustani Ya Upenda garden: a wooden arbor with benches and a zen area with a solar fountain, lighting and sculpture. Volunteers, including older adults, helped build the spaces, which now offer calm and connection. A neighborhood leader didn't use to visit, but now visits often, saying he is impressed by the beauty created with older adults in mind.
Bowdoinham, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The Town of Bowdoinham provided elevated planters to six residents who, because of disabilities, could not maintain traditional, in-the-ground gardens. Members of the local Masons Lodge constructed the raised beds and delivered soil to each recipient. To showcase the planters, the Town hosted a community meal featuring local produce, which included a presentation about the benefits of raised beds. In addition, the Town founded a garden club, which meets monthly.
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
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