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Washburn Memorial Library (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Housing
└ HomeFit Modifications
└ HomeFit Modifications
Older adults in Washburn faced safety risks at home due to limited knowledge and resources for modifications. The library hosted an educational event that exceeded expectations, drawing 35 participants age 50-plus. Attendees received HomeFit bags with items like grab bars and motion-sensor lights and had access to an occupational therapist for personalized guidance. Participants reported feeling safer and more confident about aging in place, with one noting that the items provided were things much needed and that they "added an extra level of safety to my home!"
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Florence, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Many older adults lacked clear information about home safety and falls prevention, making it harder for them to stay independent. NKADD partnered with SeniorSafe Home Solutions to offer classes that gave adults age 50 and over practical steps they could use right away. The organization also strengthened its resource guide by expanding the HomeFit section and preparing 9,000 updated copies for distribution, with broadcast segments planned to share safety tips more widely. One attendee said simple changes like rug tape and non slip strips "made a world of difference." The project set up long-term access to safety resources and opened new pathways for outreach through future sessions and referrals.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Rocky Mount, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County addressed safety hazards that made daily tasks hard for older adults and put independence at risk. The team integrated HomeFit and safety assessments into every repair visit, adding practical upgrades like low-entry showers with grab bars and flooring fixes for three families that included five people age 50-plus. A construction manager now conducts an accessibility review on each project, and outreach boosted applications, revealing wider need. The new process is standard practice and strengthens evidence for funders. One resident said showering is "very easy" now and praised the crew for a "wonderful job."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Phoenix, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Phoenix faces extreme heat and droughts. This has left older residents in neighborhoods with little shade struggling to keep new trees alive, a critical step for cooling streets and reducing heat-related distress. The project supplied hoses, reels and irrigation repairs to 26 households. This project was mostly led by older adults, who also created a watering schedule with reminders. A retired contractor ensured installations and repairs were done safely. These efforts helped neighbors care for nearly 100 trees and avoid trip hazards. One resident said the tools and guidance "gave him hope" his trees would thrive, underscoring the projects role in building resilience.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Presque Isle, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Trails
Description: The Presque Isle Bike Walking Trail winds four miles through the heart of town. Working with the local hospital, the City constructed three new trail loops near the local community center, where users can find a water fountain, restrooms and concessions. They also added landscaping, a new bridge and two dedicated parking lots to provide easier access to the trail system. The new loops allow visitors to opt for shorter walks without having to backtrack to return to the trail entrance. Additionally, they provide a more direct connection to downtown, as well access to a playground, splash pad, athletic fields, public market and Riverside Park.
Caribou, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Addressing community health
Description: Caribou faced a hidden crisis of abuse of older adults, and volunteers were without tools to educate or intervene. The group built a multimedia toolkit with expert-backed content, video vignettes and safety features to guide prevention and reporting. The resource will be shared statewide and used in local programs, strengthening community capacity to protect older adults and empowering them to speak up and access help.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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