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San Juan, PR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: After repeated hurricanes, a San Juan community lacked a safe, equipped space for emergencies. The project transformed an abandoned center into a resiliency hub with a generator, water tank, freezer, cots and kitchen supplies. Volunteers helped purchase equipment and plan workshops on disaster preparedness and emotional resilience. "With this center, older adults will have water, food and shelter when crises hit," said a community leader. The hub will serve 500 residents and provide ongoing training to strengthen self-sufficiency.

Elkton, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: This project will enhance disaster preparedness for people age 50+ and those with disabilities. It includes installing a generator, offering emergency shelter, and providing first aid and emergency preparedness classes.

Mammoth Spring, AR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: This project will establish a warming and emergency shelter at a VFW in order to provide sleeping arrangements, food and supplies to older adults and disabled residents during power outages and disasters.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

St. Thomas, VI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public art installations

Description: The Virgin Islands Council on the Arts commissioned local artists -- all of whom were older adults -- to create four murals at a local recreational complex. Intended to extend the Yacht Haven Public Arts Initiative into more neighborhoods, the new murals focus on Virgin Islanders' heritage and history. Subject matter includes an ocean vista with sail boats, a scene from everyday Island life and an homage to local athletes. Project organizers say they hope the new public art instills a sense of neighborhood identity and adds color to walls that would otherwise go unnoticed.

St. Thomas, VI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Hurricanes left many parks in disrepair, and intense heat made outdoor spaces uncomfortable for older adults. The project built a durable shade structure with two ADA-compliant picnic tables near a playground, skate and bike park and open field, creating a cooler, welcoming spot for all ages. Volunteers also repaired a ballpark dugout and extended a concrete slab to improve accessibility. Families now use the shaded area for gatherings, and older adults enjoy a safe place to connect while watching activities. Built to withstand harsh island conditions, the structure will serve the community for decades.

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