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Town of Fries (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
Older adult residents in Fries faced limited access to fresh produce and few opportunities for physical activity, often having to choose between healthy food and fitness. The town transformed an empty lot beside the farmers market into a garden with six raised beds, landscaping and ADA-compliant benches. Materials for soil and tools were purchased to prepare for spring planting. The project sparked excitement among group members, creating a space for social engagement and healthier eating. Plans include annual expansion and community fundraisers. One participant noted the garden will help them stay active and afford nutritious food.
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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Akron, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Shanti Community Farms created a Nepali garden to give older adults in Akron's diverse neighborhoods a place to grow familiar foods and reconnect with cultural traditions. Elevated beds made gardening easier, and families cultivated potatoes, mustard greens and Asian eggplant while preparing traditional dishes for picnics and farmers markets. The project boosted physical activity, improved diets and generated income through sales. It also strengthened intergenerational ties as grandparents gardened alongside grandchildren, reducing isolation and fostering community pride. Plans to expand into an education center promise lasting benefits.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Highland Heights, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Older adults lacked access to fresh produce and social connection, so the center built two raised garden beds and launched gardening classes with donated soil and seeds. Participants planted fall crops, learned pest control and harvesting, and joined cooking sessions using their own produce. One new participant said she was "excited to join" because raised beds made gardening accessible and offered a chance to "connect with so many other seniors," improving her health and social life.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Seaford, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The project tackled the need for a more inclusive garden space and waived seasonal fees for local veterans to encourage participation. Grant funds added shaded seating, reading areas, accessible tools and a drip irrigation system that streamlined watering and improved efficiency. A permanent Little Free Library now invites neighbors to linger and connect, while the irrigation upgrade saves volunteers hours of work and sets the stage for new gardens that will supply fresh produce to local pantries and shelters.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Grayson County, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: Many residents of rural Grayson County lack internet access. To help them get information about the COVID-19 pandemic, Grayson County set up a phone hotline staffed by older adult volunteers. The service helped callers find out how to apply for financial assistance, where to find face masks or how to get help acquiring food or medicine. The County Emergency Services Coordinator trained the volunteers, ensuring they had accurate information during the pandemic's onset. Project organizers made sure the service was available 24 hours a day, with three shifts of volunteers available for calls and software to manage phone queues. The initiative's success spurred the Emergency Services Coordinator to commit funding to continue the helpline for future emergency situations.
Mount Airy, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Market Street lacked accessible seating and amenities, limiting its appeal for older adults and reducing opportunities for social interaction. The city installed picnic tables, two fully accessible benches, bike racks, recycling containers and decorative lighting to create a welcoming plaza. These upgrades encourage outdoor dining, leisure and mobility for people of all ages. Residents and business owners praised the changes for making the area more inviting. The city plans to promote the space for festivals and events, ensuring continued use and intergenerational appeal.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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