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Marysville, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: Older adults struggled to reach grocery stores and pharmacies because the community circulator ran only once a week. The project added a second weekly route, hired a licensed driver and enlisted volunteers to help riders with bags. The expanded service connected residents to stores, doctors and the Senior Center, giving them more flexibility and reducing isolation. Riders said the change "helped them feel more independent," and some visited the center for the first time, enjoying activities and socializing without worrying about transportation.

Philadelphia, PA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: UESF tackled transportation barriers for older adults in Philadelphia by providing SEPTA passes and ride-hailing trips to reach Oak Street Health centers for benefit applications and document retrieval. The program integrated transportation into mobile outreach, hosting workshops and distributing resources at multiple sites. These efforts helped older adults secure vital documents and prevent utility shutoffs, reducing housing instability. One participant shared that transportation assistance "helped achieve long-term stability and alleviated the stress of having a utility turned off," underscoring its role in promoting independence and security.

Des Moines, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: Older adults in central Iowa faced isolation and missed appointments because they lacked affordable, on-demand transportation. The project funded over 800 rides through a call-center program that let riders book ride-hailing trips without a smartphone. Trips included medical visits, grocery runs and social outings, helping participants stay connected and independent. One rider shared, "it makes us very happy to see each other!" after using the service to visit a lifelong friend in a care facility.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Opelika, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Organizers with Opelika Main Street hoped to draw more visitors downtown. To do this, they activated an underused public space by adding outdoor games. Volunteers installed a giant, colorful chess and checkers set, suitable for people of all ages to enjoy. Organizers say the new game center represents a safe place for residents of all ages to gather.

Newnan, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project set out to activate a neglected alleyway, which they christened Carnegie-Thompson Alley. The space connects to a planned trail system spanning downtown Newnan. To allow residents to gather in the space, project organizers purchased seating and lighting. Public art installations are planned for the site, as well as repaving to ensure accessibility.

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