Houston, TX

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services

Description: To support its Chore Corps program, Interfaith Ministries purchased a trailer and outfitted it with tools. The organization's volunteers can borrow the tools to assist older adults with household chores and yard work, helping them age in place in their homes. Through the Chore Corps program, volunteers are each paired with an older adult, who they visit on a weekly basis. In addition, the organization distributed more than 80 space heaters to older adults.

Portland, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services

Description: Unsafe housing and costly repairs threatened older adults' ability to age in place in Portland. REACH's Community Builders Program stepped in to complete major fixes, from replacing sewage pipes and restoring bathroom access to installing an ADA-height toilet and repairing roofs. Volunteers and subcontractors also cleared gutters and improved kitchen safety. These repairs eased financial strain and created healthier homes. "Your help allows us to continue to live independently," said one homeowner, reflecting the program's impact on stability and quality of life.

Banner Elk, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services

Description: In rural North Carolina, older adults faced unsafe steps and entryways that left them isolated and at risk of falls. Carolina Cross Connection mobilized nearly 600 youth campers to complete dozens of projects, building ramps, steps and handrails and improving yards for safety. These repairs restored independence and reduced isolation. One neighbor returned home from rehab after volunteers built a ramp, while another said, "These handrails are a blessing... now I can feed my cats and feel safe," showing how the effort transformed daily life.