Philadelphia, PA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability

Description: Older adults in Philadelphia needed a welcoming space to connect and access technology. The organization converted unused office space into the Golden Age Cafe, a vibrant lounge offering coffee, baked goods and free Wi-Fi. Volunteers led the redesign and now manage the cafe, which hosts programs and combats isolation. "The cafe has a warm inviting atmosphere... a place to meet and relax," said a volunteer. The permanent space enhances Vernon Park and creates new revenue streams for sustainability.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Philadelphia, PA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience

Description: This project allowed Mt. Airy Community Development Corporation to intentionally recruit local older adults to take part in its PhillyiHub entrepreneurship program. Project organizers recruited a cohort of older adult entrepreneurs and held a series of virtual workshops to help them develop their businesses. Workshop topics include financing, business operations, marketing and branding. The six-week program provides one-on-one assistance with business growth planning and gives business owners a chance to network with each other. Project organizers say the older adults were engaged and open participants.