Montpelier, VT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project created a pop-up produce stand to distribute affordable food from Montpelier's city farm. Additionally, the City made improvements to an area outside its older adult center to create a space for weekly outdoor gatherings.

Montclair, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Montclair Community Garden has long been used by community members as a central gathering place, despite a lack of older adult-friendly amenities. The Montclair Community Foundation installed three raised garden beds, specifically designed for people with mobility restrictions, those who cannot easily bend down and gardeners who use wheelchairs. Additionally, the foundation installed an ADA-compliant picnic table, an 18-by-27-foot shade structure and new LED lighting. These changes enable residents of all ages and abilities to enjoy the garden. Now that the improvements are complete, project organizers say they are piloting a health education program at the garden, which will welcome patients whose doctors have recommended they spend time outdoors.

Baltimore, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project upgraded and made accessibility improvements to a community garden in a low-income neighborhood. It created a rain garden and installed a permeable paver path, picnic table, lighting and a canopy.