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Shelter WF (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ Housing Choice Design Competitions
└ Housing Choice Design Competitions
Whitefish's housing shortage forces many older adults to remain in homes that no longer meet their needs, or to leave the area entirely. Shelter WF launched a design competition during the city's Growth Policy Update, drawing 11 submissions and over 120 public votes. The project produced educational materials and a magazine shared with city leaders, sparking conversations about zoning reforms and gentle density. Two board members joined a city review panel, and designs focused on aging in place are now influencing policy discussions to expand affordable housing options.
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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Louisville, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions
Description: Louisville faced high costs and delays for Accessory Dwelling Units, limiting housing options for older adults. To remove these barriers, the city purchased three sets of pre-approved ADU plans and posted them online for free, cutting costs and streamlining permits. The plans include universal design features and options for different lot sizes, making ADUs more accessible for families seeking multi-generational living or supplemental income. The effort has already led to permit approvals and is expected to expand housing choices for aging in place. "People are always looking for opportunities for generational wealth... it's a wonderful opportunity for the city," said one supporter.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Phelps, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions
Description: Phelps Business Development and Tourism Council Inc. responded to a shortage of affordable, independent living options for older adults by running a design competition for tiny homes and ADUs. Five designers over age 50 submitted concepts shaped by interviews with older adults, which were reviewed through county public health and the Office for the Aging. The effort sparked community discussions, advanced potential sites and formed partnerships with New Energy Works and Ark Design Studio to turn 12 finalists into 2 zoning-ready plans. With land talks underway and donated labor pledged for a first build, the project accelerated locally supported housing options with rents aligned to fixed incomes.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cleveland Heights, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions
Description: Zoning barriers and high costs limited Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), reducing housing options for older adults. To build awareness and momentum, the city hosted an ADU design competition that drew 28 submissions and over 5,300 online views. Three winning designs will become pre-approved plans, and a showcase event engaged residents and media. These steps laid the groundwork for zoning changes and future ADU construction, offering affordable, accessible housing. One resident said, "After decades of dreaming of a garage conversion for me in my golden years, I was thrilled to learn my city would reconsider zoning."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Billings, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Older adults in Billings faced high screen time and low physical activity, increasing risks for isolation and health decline. To address this, the coalition added a surface challenge board and walking signs in Lillis Park, encouraging balance exercises and daily movement. These features complement pickleball courts and trails, creating a more inclusive space for all ages. The project set a model for age-friendly park design and will support fall prevention programs. "I am excited to have a walking trail and support to stay fit in my neighborhood," said one of the project participants.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Anaconda, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Anaconda-Deer Lodge County purchased two ADA-compliant picnic tables to accommodate older adults and residents with disabilities. Placed in Kennedy Commons, the tables are painted the distinctive accessibility blue, making them easily identifiable. County staff installed them on level ground so they are easy for wheelchair users to access. In the future, the County expects to purchase eight more tables so residents can gather and dine together.
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