Tigard, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience

Description: The City of Tigard hoped to create a business incubator to help local entrepreneurs test out their ideas. So the City launched its Tigard on Roll Program, purchasing two food trucks outfitted with commercial restaurant equipment. Startup food vendors can apply to lease the trucks at a reduced rate, and the City provides coaching from business advisors. The trucks -- which sit in Tigard's new Universal Plaza -- also offer an important amenity to residents of downtown. The incubator program specifically targets entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities, which it supports by reducing start-up costs and offering mentorship. Today, residents can find the trucks at a weekly farmers market and at the annual Taste of Tigard food festival.

Augusta, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience

Description: This project set out to create vendor stalls near the Jessye Norman School of the Arts building, with the goal of holding regular artists markets. The school purchased benches and kiosks for participating vendors to display their goods. The school then held a street market where artists could sell their work. Organizers say they plan to expand the market in the future and hope it will become a regular event, increasing foot traffic and economic activity in the neighborhood.

Memphis, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience

Description: Many Memphis families lack affordable estate planning, leaving homes vulnerable to probate and loss. To address this, the Community Legal Center held 18 free clinics at local centers and libraries, serving nearly 300 residents, mostly older adults. Volunteer attorneys drafted wills, powers of attorney and advance directives, with local council members organizing sessions in their districts. The effort preserved property titles and reduced foreclosure risk. One participant resolved a tangled inheritance involving multiple heirs, ensuring rightful ownership and peace of mind for future generations. The model is now prompting ongoing clinics and attorney training.