Athol, Massachusetts Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
5/6/2021

Lead Agency: Franklin County and North Quabbin Regional Age-Friendly Coalition

Regional Planning Organization/Metropolitan Planning Organization/Council on Government

Action Plan Download

An action plan is based on the results of community surveys identifying needs within the 8 Domains of Livability that influence the health and quality of life of older adults. While there is flexibility in how a plan is created and what it will do, every action plan includes a statement about what can be achieved, target dates for goal completion, identification of participating organizations and indicators to measure progress. The action plan is an "active" rather than static document. Revisions and amendments are a sign of program improvement and progress.

Action Plan Highlights

  1. Outdoor Spaces

    Improve accessibility of parks and public facilities by conducting ADA compliance audits and incorporating age-friendly elements in parks and recreation plans.

  2. Transportation

    Increase residents' knowledge of local transportation options through transit training programs. Expand volunteer driver availability.

  3. Housing

    Support creation of age-friendly housing units and living arrangements, including homesharing. Offer home safety and home repair assistance to enable aging in place.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

The Park Theatre (2026)

Jaffrey, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: A wall-mounted handrail will be installed along the interior passage connecting the theater lobby and main auditorium. The added support will assist patrons and volunteers who experience balance, mobility or vision challenges.

South County Senior Center (2026)

Sunderland, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Disaster Resilience Other

Description: Household disaster preparedness for older adults will be impved by distributing 300 emergency kits designed for power outages, flooding and extreme cold. The center will also host local workshops with emergency management partners to help residents age 50+ prepare.

ABOUT THE AARP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE

Launched in 2017, the annual AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to local governments and nonprofits in order to fund quick-action, ready-to-implement projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages.

See all nearby projects

LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED

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Visit AARP.ORG/LIVABLE
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AARP Massachusetts State Office

One Beacon Street
Suite 2301
Boston, MA 02108
United States

Phone: 866-448-3621
Fax: 617-723-4224
Email: [email protected]