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Kenai, AK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Hey gek'a, also known as the lingonberry or lowbush cranberry, is used by Alaska Native people to treat headaches, swelling, sore throats and tuberculosis and to dye mats, baskets and skin. After the installation of six raised gardening beds on the campus of the Dena'ina Wellness Center, Kenaitze Indian Tribe elders and other community members have improved access to the berries. They also grow 11 other indigenous, medicinal plants at the site, including chamomile, yarrow and stinging nettle. Each plant is tagged with its Dena'ina name, as well as its uses, enabling visitors to learn about the tribe's language and traditional knowledge.

Barceloneta, PR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: An abandoned lot in Barceloneta left older adults without a safe, inclusive space for recreation and connection. The project converted the site into a community garden with ramps, picnic tables and shade structures. It also hosted monthly workshops on farming and composting. Volunteers helped install accessibility features and maintain the space. The garden now serves as a hub for learning and social interaction, promoting food security and emotional well-being. One community leader said she was grateful for a place where she could unwind and talk while being surrounded by nature, highlighting its impact on residents quality of life.

Wasilla, AK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Community Gardens

Description: Organizers with Wasilla Area Seniors hoped their new community garden would be a therapeutic space for older adults. But the garden lacked places to sit and rest. Responding to older adults' requests for seating, project organizers added nine accessible benches to the site's trail and gardens. Additionally, they installed additional raised planters, which allow people of all abilities to garden. The improvements also precipitated the creation of the Mat-Su Seed Library group. Organizers say garden gives older adults a reason to leave their homes and socialize with others.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Wilmington, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Activities that address social isolation and facilitate community connections

Description: In March 2020, the Delaware Children's Museum closed its doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ahead of Grandparents Day in September, museum staff developed a specialized online curriculum for grandparents (and the grand at heart -- those who aren't officially grandparents but serve the in the role). Project organizers distributed 300 You're Grand activity bags at the museum's drive-through and at a local community center. Each bag included instructions for remote activities for connecting with grandchildren online or over the phone.

Wilmington, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: West Center City is a predominantly Black neighborhood in Wilmington which has historically lacked bicycle infrastructure. To give people a place to park their bikes, Wilmington Alliance installed three new art racks in central areas -- an upgrade from the single bicycle rack that once served the whole neighborhood. Local artists designed Art Racks, with each rack's look highlighting the community's rich history. Project organizers say the racks not only add a secure place to lock up bike but add a sculptural element all can enjoy. They are installed in community gathering spaces, including at greenspaces and community centers.

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