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SF Tech Council (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
Many older adults in San Francisco struggled with technology-not because they lacked devices, but because they lacked help. To meet that need, SF Tech Council organized five multilingual "Tech Support Popups" that offered free one-on-one assistance in neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Tenderloin. Nearly 100 volunteers helped more than 200 residents update devices, remove viruses and sign up for affordable internet programs. The events built digital confidence and community connections, inspiring agencies to explore permanent tech help services. One Cantonese-speaking participant said she finally felt "heard" while learning to use her phone to stay in touch with her children.
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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Shelbyville, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in Shelbyville faced difficulty in navigating digital tools needed for daily life. The Family Life Center offered classes and personalized coaching that helped participants practice email, texting, telehealth and other essential tasks. Teens served as digital mentors, creating a patient environment where everyone could learn at their own pace. Participants said the instruction was helpful and reassuring, noting how learning simple skills made them feel more connected and independent. The project strengthened social ties, reduced isolation and positioned the Family Life Center as a trusted hub for ongoing digital inclusion and future partnerships.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Scarborough, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: The library will add private pods, assistive listening tools, e-readers and hands-on technology programs for adults over 50. These updates will support telehealth visits, digital learning and easier access to library services.
Hilo, HI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: On-site digital literacy classes will be provided to residents in an affordable housing community. Hands-on training and device access will help participants use online services more confidently.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
San Francisco, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: Community Living Campaign launched a neighborhood pilot to tackle accessibility barriers that made walking difficult for older adults and people with disabilities. In several San Francisco neighborhoods, broken sidewalks and blocked curb ramps disrupted daily errands, while residents had few clear ways to report problems or track follow up. The project showed residents how to spot issues and report them through city service channels. Older adults joined short walks, meetings and trainings that explained ADA basics and encouraged people to document hazards on their own or with neighbors. Hundreds of residents took part, generating reports shared with city partners. Participants said the effort restored a sense of purpose and connection. One resident said that after retiring she had felt "no longer needed," but that the project energized her and showed her contributions mattered. City agencies have begun weaving the training into ongoing community programs.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
San Francisco, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: When the Florence Fang Asian Community Garden opened in the Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood in 2014, it focused on serving Asian immigrant elders and filled a need for green space and fresh food. This project expanded the garden, adding 3,000 square feet of gardening space and making it the second largest urban farm in San Francisco. The additional space allowed gardeners to try new techniques -- such as row planting -- that increased the garden's yields. Additionally, organizers upgraded the garden's compost system and set up beehives to help with pollinating crops. The larger harvest allowed garden organizers to distribute four tons of produce annually to local families in needs, including culturally relevant foods such as bok choy and Chinese chives.
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