Okmulgee, OK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Older adults in Okmulgee lacked access to fresh produce and opportunities for healthy engagement. Using vacant land near housing for those age 50-plus, the community built six raised garden beds designed for tribal elders and secured donated seeds. The garden became part of a Healthy Living initiative that includes walking and exercise classes, fostering nutrition and social connection. Plans to expand the garden will strengthen long-term goals of healthy eating and community camaraderie, ensuring members have a shared space to grow food and relationships.

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

Pine Bluff, AR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Uneven surfaces and limited seating made it hard for older adults to enjoy gardening and wellness activities. To improve access, the organization installed an asphalt driveway and secondary parking area, repaired sidewalks and added ergonomic seating options. These changes created a safer, more welcoming space for gatherings and programs like Yoga in the Garden. The upgrades also sparked plans for new fitness events and attracted donors and volunteers, strengthening the garden's role as a hub for health and community connection.

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

Hudson, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Nashua has a large migrant population from Zambia, Burundi and Honduras, many of were farmers in their native counties. The ReGeerative Roots Association hoped to give them the opportunity to use their skills in their new home. The organization's ReGen Roots program, which provides free community garden plots to immigrant families. To give more families the opportunity to grow culturally familiar foods, this project expanded the garden's footprint by two acres. Participants can sell any extra produce, supplementing their household income. Additionally, community garden members donate ten percent of their peak harvest to two nonprofits that combat food insecurity in Nashua.