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New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: In New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward, many residents lack access to public outdoor spaces. To provide additional recreational areas and bolster intergenerational connections for residents, the Sankofa Community Development Corporation improved Sankofa Wetland Park and Nature Trail, clearing overgrown grass, fallen trees and other obstructions from the water's edge. Project organizers also installed benches and bike racks and bought new fishing equipment for visitors to use in the park. Fishing has great cultural significance to the residents of this neighborhood and provides a way for elders to bond with and mentor local youth.
Hayti, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project will improve the baseball/softball field grandstand by adding a roof, a rail, and cement pads for comfortable seating. These enhancements will provide a safe and accessible environment for all generations.
Searchlight Township, NV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: As part of long-term efforts to improve Rex Bell, Jr. Trails Park, the Searchlight Betterment Organization installed a bocce ball court onsite. The courts are open to the public four days a week and participants can check out game sets to use for free. Project organizers say the courts have helped combat social isolation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since construction completed, the site has offered lessons on the rules of bocce ball, and volunteers have stepped in to coordinate local player groups for adults and children
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Shelburne, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Falls Road's busy traffic made the village center unsafe for walking and biking, especially for older adults in nearby housing. A summer demonstration tested slower street designs with new crosswalks, a buffered walking lane, narrowed lanes and signage. More than 640 residents weighed in through surveys, and speeds dropped sharply: only 6% of cars exceeded 25 mph compared to over 50% before. The board approved keeping key features and funding further improvements. "It's so much nicer and quieter," said one property owner, as plans advance for permanent upgrades and expanded walkability.
Burlington, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Pandemic restrictions exposed the lack of safe outdoor spaces for older adults in Burlington, leaving them with temporary plastic chairs and no accessible options. The center converted parking spaces and lawn into a permanent patio featuring wheelchair-friendly raised beds, cedar benches, heavy-duty tables and chairs, privacy screens and decorative planters. Volunteers built and installed everything, creating a vibrant setting for meals, games and performances. The space now supports gardening and social connection while offering a long-term solution for distancing during health crises. "It's just so beautiful. I really love sitting outside and listening to the birds," said one participant.
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