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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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Indianapolis, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: A neglected garden limited opportunities for older adults and caregivers to connect and enjoy outdoor activities. The project revitalized the space with raised beds for accessibility. It also partnered with master gardeners, Boy Scouts and nonprofits to bring volunteers for maintenance and education. Residents learned to plant and harvest produce, turning the garden into a place to sit, talk and share experiences. One participant said, "Thanks for teaching me how to garden this summer. I had no idea how much fun it was. I can't wait to teach my grandkids next summer." Plans include expanding beds and hosting community events to strengthen ties.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Chelsea, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Older adults in Chelsea had few accessible spaces for social connection or healthy activities, leaving many isolated. The project transformed a schoolyard into an intergenerational garden with eight wheelchair-accessible raised beds, a convertible bench and a canopy. Residents and students planted, harvested and shared produce, which supplied the local food bank and monthly luncheons. Donations and repeat visits showed strong community engagement. Future plans include expanding raised beds and adding a permanent structure for year-round use.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Washington, DC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Older adults volunteering in the community garden, growing fresh produce for donation, were increasingly limited by mobility challenges and summer heat, putting pressure on a program that depends on consistent hands-on work. Franciscan Monastery Garden Guild responded by upgrading the garden with raised beds, ergonomic tools, accessible seating and misting fans. These improvements reduced bending and strain, helped volunteers work safely in hot conditions and made it easier for people with limited mobility to plant, tend and harvest. The changes allowed older adults to remain active in the garden rather than step back from the work. The upgrades also made the space more welcoming to new volunteers, supporting steady production of fresh vegetables for food pantries and meal programs. By removing physical barriers, the project helped older adults continue contributing their time while expanding access to locally grown food.
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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