Brooklyn Park, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: The City of Brooklyn Park hoped to improve the accessibility of its community events, making them more welcoming to residents with mobility challenges. So the City invested in portable mats, which event organizers can lay down to create a 360-foot accessible pathway. Additionally, the City purchased outdoor chairs to flank the path. Meant to be used across the community, the mats and chairs are easily stored and transported between event locations by city staff.

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.

Greenfield, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Accessible mountain trails will be repaired and maintained with improved surfaces, drainage and cleared paths. These updates will help people using mobility aids safely enjoy year-round outdoor recreation on the trail.