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Jamestown, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in the community faced barriers to staying connected, from limited transportation to difficulty using digital tools. The center expanded learning opportunities by offering Technology for Seniors classes with new laptops and a Computer Corner, along with gardening workshops supported by raised beds, tools and plant lights. Participants practiced hands-on skills, grew flowers they later shared with others and gained confidence using computers to stay in touch with family. These programs continue to grow and will expand further once the center moves to a larger facility, creating ongoing opportunities for community members to build skills and maintain independence.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Houston, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Houston's low-income apartments lacked devices and digital skills, limiting access to telehealth and social engagement. UHD distributed 99 tablets and hosted seven training events where students taught the participants to navigate apps, protect against scams and use tools for health and communication. Residents now use tablets for essential tasks and social activities, reducing isolation and improving access to care. The program also fostered intergenerational connections and plans ongoing tutorials to sustain impact.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
San Francisco, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Many older adults in San Francisco struggled with technology-not because they lacked devices, but because they lacked help. To meet that need, SF Tech Council organized five multilingual "Tech Support Popups" that offered free one-on-one assistance in neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Tenderloin. Nearly 100 volunteers helped more than 200 residents update devices, remove viruses and sign up for affordable internet programs. The events built digital confidence and community connections, inspiring agencies to explore permanent tech help services. One Cantonese-speaking participant said she finally felt "heard" while learning to use her phone to stay in touch with her children.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
El Paso, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public place improvements to withstand extreme weather events
Description: As part of its Million Trees El Paso initiative, Eco El Paso planted 88 native and drought-tolerant trees along the Paso Del Norte Trail. In addition, the organization improved wayfinding along the trail, which passes through the city's Thomas Many neighborhood. The City lent a hand in the effort, removing dead trees and making needed irrigation repairs. El Paso has less tree canopy cover than many other communities, with an average of fewer than three trees per acre. Project organizers hope the new trees help cool the neighborhood and combat the urban heat island effect, making walking more comfortable for residents. The City later cited the success of the project in its efforts to secure bond funding for future tree planting efforts.
Las Cruces, NM
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: To strengthen community ties and reduce isolation among older adults, Cruces Creatives led a paint-by-numbers mural project in downtown Las Cruces. More than 600 residents, including nearly 200 people age 50-plus, helped transform a highly visible wall into an 1,800-square-foot work of art. The mural gives volunteers lasting pride and has prompted continued engagement with local programs. Integrated research will produce the first peer-reviewed study on participatory public art, shaping similar efforts elsewhere. One participant summed up the experience: "Being a team and working together to improve our city feels fulfilling."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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