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Southeastern Life Center (2025) | AARP Livable Communities Map

Southeastern Life Center (2025) Print

2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee

Project Category

Transportation
└ Public or private transit access

Southeastern Life Center focused on a persistent barrier facing many residents: the lack of reliable, affordable transportation to reach everyday needs. For older adults with mobility challenges or fixed incomes, missed rides often meant missed medical appointments, limited access to food and fewer chances to stay socially connected. The project expanded door to door transportation and related support services, helping participants reach health care visits, grocery stores and community activities. Outreach and engagement efforts ensured the services reached people most affected by isolation and limited mobility. As a result, older adults reported improved access to essential resources and stronger social connections, supporting greater independence. By integrating these services into its core programs and strengthening local partnerships, the work is positioned to continue beyond the grant period and to support aging in place over time.

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

Rochester, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: The organization will install ADA-compliant benches and clear transit wayfinding signage along a key transit corridor. These upgrades will reduce walking strain, improve navigation and support independence for older residents.

Ivins, UT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: The project will transform city crosswalks with high-contrast public art and safety-informed designs. These improvements will make crossings more visible, slow vehicle traffic and help walkers of all ages move more confidently.

Orange, VA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Benches will be added at town transit stops and other walking areas. The seating will help older adults rest comfortably while waiting for transportation or while walking around town.

Dillon, SC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Legal/financial homeowner education

Description: Free workshops will help adults age 50-plus better understand housing issues such as wills, property taxes, foreclosure and tenant rights. The program supports people on fixed incomes to help them stay safely housed and avoid displacement.

Southern Pines, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Resilience Other

Description: Emergency preparedness kits will be distributed to about 600 residents age 50-plus. The kits will help older adults prepare for hurricanes, power outages and extreme heat, especially in rural and low-income areas.

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