Macon, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Before 24/7 television, air-conditioning and smartphones, sitting outside and talking over a game of chess or checkers was a popular pastime. To give residents of all ages in South Macon a place to gather, South Macon Art Revitalization Technology purchased outdoor checkerboard tables and two oversized Connect Four games. A crew of neighborhood residents serve as volunteer game instructors onsite. Chess, checkers and Connect Four are games that require critical thinking, patience and skill, SMART secretary Frankie Lewis said, noting that many older people in the neighborhood are accomplished chess and checkers players. We want to make sure their skills don't get lost due to the lack of activity, and we want the elders in our community to share their knowledge with people here of all ages, but especially our youth.

Forest City, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will provide spaces for gathering and dining outdoors by adding seating and shade coverings throughout the Grahamtown neighborhood. The communal spaces will welcome older adults by allowing them to rest away from the sun's rays.

Chillicothe, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will turn a vacant and blighted property into the Sixth Ward's first-ever park, providing access to outdoor space for all generations.