Wash Away Unemployment (2022) Print

star-24px 2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee

Project Category

Housing
└ Resources about housing options, safety and services
Returning citizens in North Carolina often face homelessness and few safe housing options. Wash Away Unemployment built an ADA-compliant tiny home for a man over age 70 who had lived in a shelter for five years. More than 25 volunteers helped complete the project, which sparked local discussions about ordinances for similar housing. "This project gave me purpose," said one volunteer, reflecting the community engagement behind the build.

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

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Town of Trenton (2019)

Trenton, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events

Description: To honor first responders who saved lives during Hurricane Florence, the Town of Trenton planned to develop a new park. The green space's design focuses on mobility and includes a freshwater pond, memorial and gathering space for entertainment. Organizers hope the project helps the community as it recovers from the storm.

Peletah Ministries (2026)

New Bern, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Expanding High-Speed Internet

Description: The program will train older rural residents to use internet tools before and after storms. Participants will gain skills for alerts, telehealth visits and recovery assistance.

ABOUT THE AARP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE

Launched in 2017, the annual AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to local governments and nonprofits in order to fund quick-action, ready-to-implement projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages.

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