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University of Nebraska Foundation (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ Lifelong housing and accessibility
└ Lifelong housing and accessibility
Older adults in Omaha need housing that supports independence and accessibility. The Sustainable Small House project demonstrates how ADA-compliant, energy-efficient homes can meet these needs. The house was relocated to the UNO campus and prepared for features like a swing-away sink, voice-controlled shower and wheelchair-level washer/dryer. Once complete, it will host public tours to showcase smart, accessible design. "The SSH can provide a significant solution to the residential sector," said project leaders.
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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Akron, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: Summit County's housing crisis leaves families and older adults spending much of their income on shelter, limiting stability and aging in place. Habitat began building Silver Maple Ridge, a 16-home development with features like single-story layouts and blocking for grab bars. The project engaged more than 400 volunteers age 50-plus and educated 32 partner families. Three homes were completed and three more nearly so, and the effort prompted Akron's first new park in 40 years, adding green space for residents while creating long-term affordable housing.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Knoxville, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: Family Promise of Knoxville's transitional housing program gives unhoused families a place to live while they get back on their feet. Many residents use the organization's Day Center to gather, access the internet, read and work on homework. But the communal space was dimly lit, which caused many residents to feel unsafe. To make the space more welcoming, organizers installed new light fixtures, as well as energy-efficient ceiling fans. They also installed doors to separate offices, a work room, computer lab and storage spaces. Organizers say they wanted to be sensitive to the trauma many families have experienced and hope the upgraded space gives residents dignity during their shelter stay.
Bowdoinham, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: Facing a shortage of accessible housing, the town created a plain-language guide to promote Universal Design-an approach that makes homes safer and easier for all ages. The 12-page brochure explains practical ideas for remodeling and new construction, from lever-style door handles to first-floor accessible baths. Older residents shared stories and feedback during development, ensuring relevance. Distributed at community events and local businesses, the guide is shaping housing conversations and influencing future plans. One resident noted it offers "simple and often inexpensive ways" to make homes welcoming for everyone.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Lincoln, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Older adults in Lincoln faced barriers to bike share, from safety concerns to cost and lack of education. BikeLNK addressed these challenges through its Bike Share for All program, hosting four citywide events to teach bike share basics, demonstrate pedal-assist bikes and offer discounted memberships. The project also launched a Bike Share Ambassador program, training seven volunteers-most age 50-plus-to promote biking in their communities. These efforts expanded awareness and built a foundation for ongoing engagement. As one ambassador shared, "I encourage everyone to take advantage of the program... It's a wonderful opportunity for exercise and for the reduction of air pollution."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Lincoln, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: Many older adults struggled to use buses and bike share because of language barriers, unfamiliar technology and uncertainty about routes and fares. The City of Lincoln offered in-person trainings that showed participants how to ride transit and use bike share, supported by multilingual written and video materials. Older adults received hands-on guidance, free passes and help practicing trips, including when fixed-route transit or paratransit made sense. Participants reported greater confidence using transit for medical visits, shopping and social activities. Training materials and partnerships remain in use beyond the sessions.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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