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Stafford County Economic Development Inc. (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Park enhancements
└ Park enhancements
Pickleball grew popular in St. John, but older adults driving the trend had no dedicated courts and played in borrowed spaces. The project transformed an old tennis court into six pickleball courts, two more than planned. The courts are now used daily by residents of all ages, and the school added pickleball to its physical education program. The recreation commission plans tournaments to draw regional players, boosting health and community engagement. One participant said she was thrilled to have a court nearby, and says she will get to play more often now.
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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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.
Hauula, HI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: An abandoned five-acre lot had a high number of invasive plants and illegal dumping, leaving residents without a safe outdoor space. Hui o Hauula rallied more than 100 volunteers to clear the land, build a walking trail and install ten ADA-compliant benches. Older adults and youth collaborated with a local artist to paint a 20-foot mural celebrating resilience, unveiled during a cultural event with music and hula. Today, the site hosts daily walkers, children playing ball and a weekly farmers market, with plans for a resilience hub and health programs underway. "If you build it they will come... and they did," said one organizer.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Graettinger, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Graettinger lacked safe, low-impact fitness options for older adults in its rural community. To address this, the city installed two pickleball courts with fencing, nets and benches, and added a paved sidewalk linking the courts to the playground and walking trail. Volunteers cleared the site, and older adults began hosting daily meetups to teach pickleball. These improvements created a social hub and accessible exercise space, helping residents stay active and connected with family and neighbors for years to come.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Blue Rapids, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: To provide affordable recreation for older adults, the project converted a basketball court into a pickleball court and added a bench. Free equipment is available for checkout, and a demonstration day introduced the game to residents. The court now offers a year-round fitness option that encourages health and social connection. "The group that gathered to watch the demonstration was excited about the possibility of playing," said one organizer, noting plans for indoor play during winter.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Caney, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public Places Other
Description: This project will revitalize basketball and tennis courts by repainting basketball courts, adding new goals, and converting tennis courts into pickleball courts.
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