Owensboro, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a destination for music lovers but accessibility features for people of all ages and abilities. The facility added an audio guide to their tours which help visitors with visual or hearing impairments experience exhibits with an accompanying audio narration. To access the guide, patrons can either use a smartphone app or borrow an audio player and disposable ear buds provided by the museum. The system also offers sign language tours, and the museum has induction loop technology for visitors with hearing aids. Visitors simply select an exhibit number -- identified with new signage -- to access in-depth stories and historical details.

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.

Maricopa County, AZ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Outdated technology threatened the audio service that thousands of older adults rely on for news, health information and election details. Sun Sounds upgraded six recording booths and a Master Control computer, giving volunteer readers, many age 50-plus, the tools to produce clearer, more efficient programming. The improvements ensure uninterrupted access to vital information for listeners statewide. One listener said the service made it possible to be an informed voter and stay connected through programs on health, hobbies and local news. Plans are underway to extend upgrades to other stations.

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