AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Millinocket, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Trails
Description: The project addressed the need for a safe, comfortable place where older adults and other residents could gather. This was especially warrented since an important community trail lacked lighting and limited opportunities for regular activity and connection. The project transformed an underused room into a flexible space with new seating, lighting and tables. This created a warm setting for conversation, crafting and small group activities. The renewed room strengthened social ties and offered older adults a reliable and accessible place to reduce isolation and engage with others. Volunteers and patrons said they looked forward to using the space, and individuals with disabilities noted that its accessibility will help them participate more easily in group activities.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Blue Hill, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Trails
Description: This project set out to create age-friendly trails in Blue Hill. Efforts included constructing an accessible walking path and installing benches along it to give older adults and people with mobility challenges a place to rest. Part of the town's larger Connectivity Plan, organizers hoped the trails would encourage intergenerational activities and give residents opportunities for physical activity. The route runs through Blue Hill's downtown, allowing people to walk to local amenities and shops.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Cortland, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Older adults faced safety risks at home and lacked affordable options for modifications. The project delivered home safety training and distributed low-cost products, while public presentations raised awareness and encouraged practical steps. Staff guided participants on using grab bars and other aids, and outreach sparked interest in borrowing equipment from the organization's loan closet. One attendee even opened his home for volunteer-led improvements, showing how education can lead to action and safer living.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Ithaca, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Disaster Preparedness
Description: Many older adults lacked clear guidance on how to prepare for emergencies. Love Living at Home offered six trainings in community sites and online, reaching nearly 300 people with step-by-step instruction and materials like checklists and backpacks. Participants later installed alarms, purchased extinguishers and organized emergency kits. The program strengthened ties with county partners and increased awareness of future trainings. One attendee said the presentations were "very informative and helpful...thank you for making this very important training available!"
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP New York State Office
750 Third Avenue
Floor 31
New York, NY 10017
United States