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2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
Newark's Central Ward struggles with food insecurity, leaving older adults and families without access to fresh produce. To address this, the organization expanded a school-based garden at Louise A. Spencer Elementary, adding beds designed for older adults and providing adaptive tools. Residents now maintain the garden during summer, ensuring sustainability and fostering intergenerational ties. One student said gardening with his grandmother "reminds him of his dad and helps him feel close to his culture."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Reno, NV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Many of Reno's Native residents have limited access to fresh produce. To provide nutritious food to local families, the Center for Healthy Aging concerted a vacant lot into an intergenerational, indigenous community garden. The Center wanted to ensure the space was accessible and welcoming, so it installed ADA-compliant benches, raised garden beds and LED lighting in the space. Today, the garden hosts programming for people of all ages, including culinary classes, culturally relevant gardening instruction and a harvest festival.
Macon, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: A neglected community garden will be restored with raised beds for shared planting and learning. Gardening activities will increase access to fresh food while encouraging intergenerational connection.
Jackson, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Blighted lots will be converted into accessible gardens and a small market area with raised beds, walking paths and vendor space. These upgrades will help residents grow food, walk safely and take part in small-scale selling close to home.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Newark, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public Places Other
Description: The organization will improve multiple public spaces in Newark by adding shade, seating and plants and by conducting cleanup efforts. Adults age 50-plus will help lead the work, creating cooler, more comfortable places to walk and rest.
Newark, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Disaster Preparedness
Description: Two sessions will teach disaster preparedness strategies for situations where older adults may be alone. Participants will receive bilingual checklists and basic emergency items.
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