Sparks, NV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Emergency preparedness skills

Description: Many older adults in Sparks were unprepared for emergencies, especially those homebound and living alone. To address this, the city hosted preparedness sessions and assembled 400 go-kits stocked with essentials like pill boxes, hygiene items, flashlights and rechargeable radios. Volunteers, most age 50-plus, helped pack and distribute kits through Meals on Wheels and during fire department calls. Spanish-language materials and recorded presentations extended the reach. "I'm so grateful for the emergency go-bag! What a great project for the City to do," said one participant, highlighting its role in improving safety and peace of mind.

Reno, NV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Older adults in Washoe County faced isolation and limited access to nature due to mobility challenges and costly adaptive equipment. To address this, the Foundation purchased five all-terrain wheelchairs and launched an adaptive walking program, making the chairs available for free at multiple parks. A marketing campaign spread awareness, and older adults now use the chairs weekly to explore trails they once could not reach. The project sparked new partnerships and plans for more adaptive gear. One participant shared, "I didn't think I would ever see that many different species of birds again," after using a chair to enjoy birdwatching.