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University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus School of Architecture (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
In Santurce's Machuchal sector, a vacant lot once central to cultural celebrations fell into disrepair after Hurricane Maria, leaving older adults without a place to gather. Through participatory design workshops, residents and architecture students envisioned a space that reflects community traditions. The project delivered a round bench with a tree planter, a mural wall with integrated instruments and a circular platform for music and festivals, along with improved gardens and paths. The revitalized site now hosts cultural events and fosters intergenerational ties. "I played...here as a child," one resident shared as she happily reminisced, underscoring the joy of reclaiming a space that preserves heritage amid gentrification pressures.
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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Ashton, MD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older adults in Montgomery County faced health disparities and food insecurity, with few accessible spaces for gardening and exercise. The organization added 12 raised garden beds and seating areas to its community garden, creating a space where participants grow fresh produce and connect. The garden promotes healthy eating and social ties, reducing isolation. One 97-year-old participant, unable to garden for two years due to back and knee problems, said she is "so happy and anxiously awaiting for the season to start."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Coamo, PR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: When a rural school closed, community groups, many of which were led by older adults, lost a safe place to meet. This contributed to limited education and social connection. Age-Friendly Coamo renovated two classrooms into multipurpose rooms by adding tables, chairs, kitchen equipment and technology. This has led to its increased use for workshops and events. The space now hosts seven organizations and offers free access for older adults to learn, connect and plan services. Leaders expect the hub to double as a resilience center during emergencies, providing food, power and medical supply storage.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Grand Forks, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: As part of its mission to connect the community, the Grand Forks Public Library created an intergenerational music playground on its grounds. A group of older adult volunteers helped select all-weather musical instruments and installed them on a concrete slab. Since the installation, the project has brought adults and children together, demonstrating the value of activating underused public spaces. Additionally, the playground has strengthened the library's relationship with a nearby senior housing community. Project organizers say the musical instruments offer psychological and health benefits for older adults, such as reduced stress, improved mood and greater cognitive skills.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
San Juan, PR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in Puerto Rico often struggle with digital illiteracy, leaving them disconnected from family and vital services. Centro Ines tackled this by offering small-group courses on tablets and smartphones. Common apps for entertainment, staying connected with friends and navigation were taught, as well as skills for managing medical appointments and voting online. Volunteers provided hands-on support to build confidence. Graduates now use technology to stay in touch with loved ones, access health resources and prepare for emergencies like hurricanes. One participant noted how helpful this course has been for himself and other residents.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
San Juan, PR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events
Description: After repeated hurricanes, a San Juan community lacked a safe, equipped space for emergencies. The project transformed an abandoned center into a resiliency hub with a generator, water tank, freezer, cots and kitchen supplies. Volunteers helped purchase equipment and plan workshops on disaster preparedness and emotional resilience. "With this center, older adults will have water, food and shelter when crises hit," said a community leader. The hub will serve 500 residents and provide ongoing training to strengthen self-sufficiency.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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