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Stafford, CT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Trails

Description: The Citizen's Advisory Committee partnered with the Town of Stafford to increase recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. To do this, they created the River Walk Trail within Hyde Park. Volunteers worked to construct the trail, excavating the route, installing a fabric barrier and covering it with aggregate stone. The River Walk runs along the Middle River, carrying visitors between Stafford's lively shopping center, past Hyde Park and into nature. "This is really about...building a sense of community," said Donna Wright, a member of the Stafford Citizen's Advisory Committee.

Cascade, ID

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Trails

Description: A half-mile section of Cascade's popular Strand Trail was muddy, icy or snowy much of the year. To make it accessible year-round, the City of Cascade leveled and paved the trail's surface. Project organizers also added three new benches and wayfinding signage. The improved trail segment connects two branches of the Strand Trail, which meanders for two miles along the Payette River and offers visitors stunning views of nearby mountains and bird watching and fishing opportunities. Additionally, it extends access to a visitor's center and to Kelly's Whitewater Park, a nonprofit facility serving whitewater rafters, kayakers and paddle boarders. The City is planning to pave another trail section in the future.

Scarborough, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Trails

Description: Scarborough lacked a safe, walkable space where older adults could exercise and connect. To make its municipal campus more inviting, the library installed five benches along the Green Trail, including one with wheelchair access. They also added plaques with QR codes linking to an interactive map and walking group details. A new webpage highlights eco-friendly features and schedules for group walks. These upgrades have encouraged residents to join walks, rest comfortably and socialize. This has sparked community interest in volunteer-led programs and plans for additional benches.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Milton, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: This project will conduct a walk audit of 2.75 miles of sidewalks to identify challenges and obstacles. Volunteers will help collect data to improve safety and walkability. The findings will inform the ADA Transition Plan.

Berwick, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services

Description: Older residents in Berwick faced challenges staying independent without access to adaptive tools. The committee launched a Handy Helper Tool Collection with more than 55 items-such as jar openers, grab bars and ergonomic garden tools-available for borrowing at the library. A shelving unit and wheeled bag allowed volunteers to bring the collection to farmers markets and town events. One visitor said that she would look into starting a similar program in her town. The program helps residents remain in their homes longer and raises awareness of practical solutions for aging in place.

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Portland, ME 04101
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