Menlo Park, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: Many older adults in the Bay Area say transportation is the biggest challenge they face. Those who cannot drive themselves risk missing medical appointments or increasing their social isolation. To address this, Peninsula Volunteers developed a transportation program that offers low cost, on-demand rides for older adults. This project expanded that program to reach residents living throughout San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. PVI provided hundreds of rides, helping residents attend doctors' appointments, do shopping and errands and participate in activities at local community centers. Additionally, the nonprofit held two workshops to teach older adults about transportation services available to them. "It makes me feel independent now. I go food shopping weekly now and that's helped immensely," one program participant said. "Sometimes I was going two whole days without eating anything because I didn't have any food in the house and I didn't want to beg for help from anyone."

Wellington, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: Volunteer drivers will provide free rides and in-person support for essential errands and appointments. Reliable transportation will help older adults remain independent and socially connected.

Las Vegas, NV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: Coordinated transportation will be provided to help adults age 50-plus attend essential summer resource expos during periods of extreme heat. The service will reduce exposure risks and help participants access utility assistance and other community programs.