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Valley Assistance Services (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Transportation Systems Change
└ Transportation Systems Change
Valley Assistance Services expanded its volunteer driver program to help older adults in rural Arizona overcome the lack of affordable transportation for medical care and daily needs. Eleven new drivers now provide free round-trip rides for appointments, errands and social activities. This is additionally supported by RN home visits to assess health and mobility. One participant shared that volunteer drivers made it possible to keep weekly oncology treatments, even on short notice, offering peace of mind and continuity of care. Outreach and partnerships ensure the service will keep growing.
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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Saco, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
Description: Older residents in Saco and nearby towns struggled with limited transportation options, making it hard to reach groceries, social activities and essential programs. Age-Friendly Saco introduced an on-demand shuttle using donated vans, hired drivers and mapped routes based on community surveys. The service now provides rides for errands and social engagement, helping residents maintain independence. One rider said, "I won't drive forever... I'm glad to know this service exists," reflecting its impact on reducing isolation and meeting daily needs.
Chapel Hill, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
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Phoenix, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Transportation Systems Change
Description: Public transit gaps in Phoenix left many older adults isolated and unable to reach health care, housing and food resources. Elaine filled this void by providing 1,000 free rides for hundreds of people age 50-plus, including trips to medical visits, grocery stores and housing appointments. Drivers offered hands-on help, from carrying bags to assisting with wheelchairs, creating a safe and supportive experience. The service helped nine formerly homeless individuals secure stable housing and improved access to essentials for hundreds more. One rider shared, "I appreciate so much that this transportation is available," and shared that one of the drivers is more like a family member and friend than just a worker.
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Green Valley, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
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South Tucson, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The Primavera Foundation improved the La Capilla neighborhood's community garden by building raised bed planters, adding ADA-compliant benches and making garden walking paths more accessible. In addition, the Foundation purchased ergonomic and adaptive tools, since the majority of residents who use the garden are older adults, often accompanied by their grandchildren. The garden improvements coincided with the City of South Tucson's Greenway Redevelopment Project, which brought public art to the neighborhood. To celebrate local residents' heritage, project organizers also installed a walking path to a mural located next to the garden. That mural -- created by student artists -- pays homage to the Yaqui and Mexican American cultures. Since this project's completion, the Foundation has made similar upgrades to another community garden.
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