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Unstoppable Girls Foundation (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Community Gardens
└ Community Gardens
To tackle food insecurity and urban blight, Unstoppable Girls Foundation improved two community gardens and launched an intergenerational program pairing older adults with youth. They shared gardening skills while more than 30 youngsters learned to plant, prune and embrace healthy eating. The effort fostered teamwork and pride, with nearly all participants reporting better physical and mental well-being. One volunteer reflected, "Gardening is one of the most rewarding activities for youngsters and senior citizens."
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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Roanoke, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: To combat food insecurity, improve neighborhood safety and encourage residents to spend time outdoors, this project enhanced an existing community garden. Over several community work days volunteers installed raised beds, benches, a picnic table and portable toilet facilities. Organizers hope the improvements make the garden more accessible to people of all ages -- including older adults living in nearby apartment complexes.
Seaford, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The project tackled the need for a more inclusive garden space and waived seasonal fees for local veterans to encourage participation. Grant funds added shaded seating, reading areas, accessible tools and a drip irrigation system that streamlined watering and improved efficiency. A permanent Little Free Library now invites neighbors to linger and connect, while the irrigation upgrade saves volunteers hours of work and sets the stage for new gardens that will supply fresh produce to local pantries and shelters.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Providence, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Older adults facing food insecurity and contaminated soil needed a safe way to grow produce and connect with others. Teaching straw bale gardening gave residents a low impact method that required no heavy tools or bending. Volunteers and older adults prepared the bales, planted vegetables and shared harvests, strengthening ties and reducing isolation. Returning participants showed how meaningful the project had become. Some participants watched produce closely, hoping to pick it when ripe. Preparing the site for next spring ensures continuity and encourages participants to try the method at home.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Elizabeth, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: After the pandemic, residents of Elizabeth faced isolation and lacked safe, vibrant spaces for connection. Kean University Foundation created a walkable art trail with banner murals inspired by residents' stories, plus painted play areas and benches. Older adults collaborated with students and volunteers to design and paint murals, while Echo Show displays in community rooms let residents share photos and stories. The project reduced isolation and strengthened community ties. "I don't think everyone living here knew they could write poems... and they see it every day," said one participant.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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.
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