Chattanooga, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: To turn an unused space into a community asset, ELLA Library created raised beds that allow older adults to garden comfortably. A retiree led the effort, and monthly events brought neighbors together to share skills and grow produce. The project sparked long-term plans for food solidarity and education, including partnerships to expand growing areas and provide ongoing support. The initiative laid the foundation for a sustainable, intergenerational gardening program.

Chattanooga, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Supporting family caregivers

Description: Family caregivers often face stress and health risks without resources to support their well-being. Lighthouse launched a 12-week program with four pillars: healthy living through gardening and nutrition tips, financial literacy, caregiver advocacy and mental health support. Participants received food boxes, learned to grow produce and used a new self-care manual. One caregiver said the guide helped her advocate for a loved one after a stroke, calling it life-saving. The program will continue refining its approach to sustain impact.