New Orleans, LA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Digital Connectivity Disaster Response

Description: Hands-on workshops will teach older adults to use smartphones, emergency alerts and telehealth tools while distributing solar powered emergency kits. Participants will stay connected during outages, avoid scams and feel more prepared during disasters.

North Bend, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Digital Connectivity Disaster Response

Description: The city will install an outdoor digital kiosk at a new downtown community hub to share wayfinding and safety details. Easy-to-read information will help older adults and visitors navigate services and events independently.

Houston, TX

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Digital Connectivity Disaster Response

Description: Wesley Community Center addressed a critical gap in disaster preparedness for older adults who lacked reliable access to technology, power and digital skills during emergencies. Power outages and limited connectivity made it harder to communicate, find information and complete essential tasks. The project created a computer lab for older adults and delivered hands-on workshops that built digital skills alongside disaster readiness. The program included how to save documents, access assistance and use devices during outages. Wesley also installed permanent charging infrastructure, including solar-powered and indoor charging stations. One participant said the charger would be especially helpful "during emergencies, power outages or situations where access to electricity is limited," strengthening confidence and reinforcing Wesley's role as a trusted disaster resource.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.