Duluth, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Lincoln Park Resource Center transformed an abandoned lot into an accessible community garden to address food insecurity and social isolation. The project added ramps, handrails and benches, making the space safer for older adults. Murals honoring local leaders turned the site into a vibrant gathering place for gardening, fitness classes and events. Residents now use the garden for fresh produce and social activities. A leader in the neighborhood association said "now community members come up to staff as they share stories of what was and what is now and how appreciative they are of the changes especially since the space is now a resourceful space for many."

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

Juneau, AK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Uneven terrain kept visitors with mobility challenges from exploring the public garden, limiting older adults' access to nature and scenic views. The group built an ADA-compliant path of precast pavers leading to a bench overlooking the gardens and ocean. They also added wide steps to manage slope. Volunteers landscaped adjoining beds, and a ribbon-cutting drew 75 guests, including wheelchair and walker users. The path is a permanent improvement that opens the arboretum to residents and strengthens community ties. One guest said, "To have the arboretum now be a place which I can easily access in my wheelchair and feel truly welcome is a wonderful gift."

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

Kansas City, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Kansas City lacked seating in parks, bus stops and social service areas, leaving older adults without safe places to rest during long waits or walks. Deferred maintenance and concentrated development deepened this gap, especially in Justice40 neighborhoods. The project installed 12 benches, including buddy benches, at six parks across five neighborhoods, adding concrete pads and memorial plaques for durability. These benches improve comfort, accessibility and community connectedness while advancing the city's Community for All Ages initiative. "It may seem like a small thing... but many of our public spaces do not have places for people to sit," said one of the project planners.

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