Oahu, HI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Kahuku Point is one of the few places on Oahu with an intact coastal strand habitat, which local organizations and volunteers are working to restore. To keep hikers on designated paths and prevent soil erosion, the North Shore Community Land Trust engaged more than 200 volunteers to plant native coastal plants and install fencing. The restoration project ensures a safe nesting habitat for at-risk and endangered animals, such as the Laysan albatross, green sea turtles, yellow-faced bees and Hawaiian monk seals. The habitat is crucial for the long-term survival of these species.

Dexter, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The Town of Dexter installed new benches on local streets and in parks to make them more accessible for older adults and those with mobility issues. Three parks -- Wayside, Ronco and Veterans Parks -- received the new benches. The Town also paved the entrance of Wayside Park, a popular gathering space for free weekly summer concerts. In addition, the Town offered Pop-Up Universities intended to provide residents with activities for learning, creativity and physical wellbeing, as well as social interaction. Topics include flower arranging, meditation and chair yoga.

Hinton, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Hinton's west side -- home to many older adults and lower-income families -- was without a public greenspace or playground. Summers County Huddle decided to change that, creating the All Aboard Community Park on a parcel of land donated to the City of Hinton. Volunteers installed a gazebo, raised planter beds and playground equipment onsite. To serve people of all ages, the playground structures can double as exercise equipment for adults. Partnering with the City and local organizations, Summers County Huddle pulled together a team of intergenerational volunteers to build and maintain the park. Since the project's completion, many volunteers have continued to brainstorm ways to improve the neighborhood, including repairing sidewalks, installing lights and addressing vacancy.