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South Side Library of Des Moines Public Library (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Accessibility of amenities
└ Accessibility of amenities
This project will increase accessibility for library patrons aged 50 by providing them with large print keyboards, magnification tools and mobility aids.
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Northfield, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: The Red Chair Project gives older adults and people with disabilities attending community concerts and events the assurance that accessible, comfortable seating is available for them. FiftyNorth and Age-Friendly Northfield purchased 52 sturdy chairs with hand rests, as well as signage for use during outdoor events. City employees and volunteers set up the chairs for public gatherings, including the annual Defeat of Jesse James celebration and the Grand Parade.
Bayfield, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: The North Pike Creek Wetlands is a 410-acre natural habitat located along the southern shore of Lake Superior. To help visitors with disabilities enjoy nature, Friends of the North Pike Creek Wetlands installed a wheelchair-accessible walkway. The path connects the wetlands' parking area to a pavilion and boardwalk. Project organizers say finishing the walkway prior to the COVID-19 pandemic was serendipitous because it accommodated thousands of visits from those looking for a safe space to enjoy the outdoors. Organizers also say the county has plans to replicate accessibility features in other nature areas.
Hibbing, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: The Hibbings Farmers' Market, a local market that participates in federal food assistance programs, is expanding its Power of Produce program, which provides discount tokens to older adults. To enable this, the market added a covered porch and chairs to its facilities, providing a shaded area for participants to meet local producers, attend events and socialize with other community members. Organizers ensured the seating area had non-slip, even flooring to accommodate marketgoers of all ages and abilities. Since completing the porch, more accessibility upgrades are in the works.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Des Moines, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options
Description: To expand transportation options to more residents, this project created a call center. This allows older adults who don't own smartphones to access rides hailing services by phone -- something previously only possible through an app. To further help residents get around, Aging Resources provides older adults with up to eight free rides each month.
Des Moines, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: In the early to mid-1900s, the Waveland Trolley was an integral part of Des Moines' transportation system yet has long since been replaced by more modern options. The Des Moines Historical Society's Waveland Trolley Project set out to commemorate the city's rich history by transforming a long-neglected space into a walkable outdoor transit museum. The park-like setting is located on the former site of the trolley loop, where streetcars would turn around at the end of their route. The outdoor museum features benches, bike racks, panels displaying historical information and a life-sized sculpture of the Waveland Trolley.
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