Unionville, CT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: An aging fishing pier will be replaced with a new accessible boardwalk and viewing platform. The upgrade will restore safe river access for visitors with mobility needs.

Hastings, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Older adults and visitors using mobility devices often waited outside historic buildings because portable ramps were impractical during events. To improve access, the park installed an ADA-compliant sidewalk linking five buildings and hosted a ribbon-cutting with volunteers assisting in landscaping. The change replaced temporary ramps with permanent access and sparked momentum for additional projects, including a village-wide walking system. One retired teacher said, "It was a joy to be able to tour with the Commission on Aging. The ramps were wonderful."

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

La Crosse, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Cia Siab -- a nonprofit serving the local Hmoob community -- wanted to ensure its community center was accessible to people of all ages and abilities. But the stairs at the building's entrance posed a challenge to community elders who use wheelchairs, scooters or other mobility devices. To fix this, the City of La Crosse installed two ramps. The center offers programming to the community, including Hmoob language camp, women's circle and elders program. Access to the site is especially important for Hmong elders, who often struggle with depression, PTSD and social isolation due to their experiences of war, displacement and loss. Since installing the ramps, the City has looked for other community spaces that would benefit from accessibility upgrades.