Hill City, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Hill City's community garden needed a reliable water source to expand food production for local families and older adults. The project installed a 1,500-gallon cistern connected to a solar-powered pump, ensuring steady irrigation. Volunteers helped prepare and place the cistern, and a kick-off event marked the upgrade. The improvement makes the garden more sustainable, enabling greater participation and more produce for food pantries and homebound residents. "It brings great joy to see those little seeds become big plants and to see all the visiting and teaching and learning that happens," a participant said.

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

Kansas City, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: An underused community garden in the Strawberry Hill neighborhood limited access to fresh produce and social connection, especially for older adults. The association revitalized the space by rehabbing raised beds, restoring sheds and adding pollinator plants. It also hosted cleanup, games and planting events to draw neighbors together. New signage made the garden more inclusive, and a fall harvest festival boosted engagement. The garden now fosters intergenerational activity and reduces isolation, with plans for seasonal programs and volunteer partnerships. One older neighbor, intrigued by the improvements, said he was eager to use a raised bed despite his limited mobility.

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

Akron, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Shanti Community Farms created a Nepali garden to give older adults in Akron's diverse neighborhoods a place to grow familiar foods and reconnect with cultural traditions. Elevated beds made gardening easier, and families cultivated potatoes, mustard greens and Asian eggplant while preparing traditional dishes for picnics and farmers markets. The project boosted physical activity, improved diets and generated income through sales. It also strengthened intergenerational ties as grandparents gardened alongside grandchildren, reducing isolation and fostering community pride. Plans to expand into an education center promise lasting benefits.

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