Cleveland, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The May Dugan Center, which serves low-income older adults in Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood, hoped to create a welcoming gathering space for its Seniors on the Move program. To make the Center's outdoor area accessible, organizers outfitted the space with four ADA-compliant picnic tables. Additionally, the Center provided program participants with herb garden kits, allowing them to create windowsill gardens in their homes. Ultimately, organizers hope experience tending the kits will help SOTM participants hone their gardening skills, which they will use to plant flower beds and raised vegetable plots at the Center. This project is part of the nonprofit's larger mission to help older adults manage their financial, physical and emotional wellbeing, allowing them to safely age in place.

Camden, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: A vacant lot on North Camden's waterfront was unappealing and attracted illegal dumping. The Camden Community Partnership decided to give the lot new life by turning it into a gathering space for residents of all ages. As part of larger efforts to activate the space, the Partnership commissioned a local artist to create a mural onsite. The artist asked older adults questions about their community and used their responses to inform the mural's design, which volunteers helped paint onto a nearby building. Since its completion, project organizers say the mural has served as a model for other local public art projects, with three additional murals in the works. The new greenspace has also tied into other community building work, including development of trail along the Delaware and Cooper Rivers.

Ludington, MI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Visitors to Big Sable Point Lighthouse had few places to rest, creating challenges for older adults and those with mobility needs. The project installed three ADA-compliant picnic tables on the grounds, offering space for wheelchairs and walkers. Volunteers helped position the tables, which now provide a durable, accessible spot for thousands of annual visitors to relax and enjoy the view. Guests have praised the change, noting the tables are always in use and make the site more welcoming for everyone.