Rolette County, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Project organizers planted fruit trees and native plants, enhancing a new garden on the Turtle Mountain Chippewa powwow grounds. The community gardening space featured turtle-shaped pots, which hold flowers and plants -- such as sweet grass and silver sage -- needed for traditional medicines. The Committee hopes fruit from the trees will feed community members and visitors to the annual Powwow celebration. Additionally, the popularity of the turtle-themed planters inspired a fundraising idea. Powwow organizers plan to create similar planters to sell in the future, with proceeds going toward running the Powwow.

Memphis, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: This project will create a more accessible and welcoming outdoor space by installing ADA-compliant benches along a walking path, supporting rest, social connection, and activity for adults aged 50-plus.

Reno, NV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: The City of Reno transformed an underused area of Paradise Park into a community garden that addressed food access and social isolation among older adults. Many residents wanted affordable ways to grow fresh food and connect outdoors, but lacked spaces designed for regular participation. The project installed accessible raised beds and hosted gardening, nutrition and wellness activities throughout the season. Older adults played key roles in planting, harvesting and sharing produce, while volunteer days and intergenerational events kept the space active. Participants described the garden as a place to build routine and purpose. Partnerships formed through the project are supporting continued programming and long term use of the garden.

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