Memphis, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Vacant parcels will be cleared and rebuilt as green space with accessible paths, seating and garden areas for everyday use. These improvements will provide neighbors with a comfortable place to gather, rest outdoors and attend small events together.

Carlisle, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project set out to enhance the City of Carlisle's walking trails and downtown area. To achieve this, the City installed benches, planters, bicycle racks and banner-sign mounts. Those improvements helped Carlisle contribute to its goal of becoming a more walkable city with an attractive, functional downtown.

Iola, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Allen County lacked inviting public spaces for creative expression and social connection, especially for older adults. Thrive Allen County installed four outdoor musical instruments near a gazebo on hospital grounds, creating a musical playground as part of a healing garden. The project also included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and permanent signage. The playground offers a unique, accessible space for people of all ages to gather and play music. An ER provider called it "an unexpected joy" after discovering the instruments during a break. The project is expected to boost civic pride, encourage social interaction and complement ongoing efforts to make the community more livable.

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