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Senior Citizens Association in Florence Couonty (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
The pandemic left many older adults in rural Florence County isolated and unable to navigate the digital world. To close this gap, the association upgraded its computer lab and added new laptops and tablets. It then launched workshops on internet safety, genealogy and computer software. Graduates received devices to continue learning, and some even published a cookbook and traced family histories. More than 100 participants gained confidence online, and a growing waitlist signals demand as plans expand to remote sites and develop volunteer mentors.
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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Bell County, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: In rural Kentucky, older adults lacked internet access, leaving them unable to apply for benefits or use telehealth. The mission installed high-speed internet at the center, and added computers, tablets and printers. It also launched Seniors4Seniors classes where high school students taught digital skills. Weekly workshops covered email setup and benefit access. The participants now use tablets to accept electronic payments at farmers markets, boosting income and food access. "I was able to sell my organic produce at the Farmers Market this summer because of the...tablet I was able to borrow and the digital literacy training I received," said one participant.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Wadesboro, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Wadesboro faced barriers to technology use, leaving many unable to connect with family or access online resources. The foundation launched TechSeniors, a six-week program offering group classes on email, video calls, social media and resume building. Participants practiced on tablets and laptops at a new learning center, supported by volunteers and a local college partnership. Graduates reported feeling more confident online and eager to keep learning, and program adjustments-such as switching to laptops for accessibility-helped ensure lasting benefits for the community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nashville, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in North Nashville faced digital barriers that limited access to health care, financial tools and social connection. The YMCA launched a Digital Connectivity Pilot with 23 computer lab sessions staffed by local HBCU students. It also hosted three Lunch and Learn workshops on telehealth, estate planning and financial literacy. These efforts helped participants gain confidence using technology. One member said the program's telehealth training made them less scared to seek care remotely. Others learned to prevent scams and manage retirement accounts. The YMCA plans to expand this model across its six-county service area.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Lake City, SC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: The City of Lake City addressed a lack of safe, accessible places for residents to walk and exercise downtown, a gap that limited no-cost options for physical activity for older adults. Damaged sidewalks and unclear routes discouraged regular outdoor movement and made walking less comfortable. The city repaired sidewalks and created a clearly defined downtown walking trail, supported by trailhead signage and sidewalk decals developed with local partners. Health and recreation organizations helped connect the trail to programs that encourage routine use, including walking as part of personal wellness plans. Older adults now have a safer, more inviting route for daily walking close to other community resources. The trail is positioned as a lasting asset that supports ongoing health efforts and provides a foundation for future improvements.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Hartsville, SC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The City of Hartsville transformed a community gym into a temporary indoor farmers market with accessible seating, vendor tables, signage and waste bins. When the market opens, it will offer a comfortable, weather-protected space and access to fresh foods for residents, with participation encouraged by those age 50-plus. The city plans quarterly events in 2026 and expects engagement to grow as residents experience the convenience and value of the indoor market.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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