Bethel, Maine Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
9/15/2015

Lead Agency: Bethel Age-Friendly Community Initiative

Volunteers (informal)

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. Transportation

    Promote pedestrian safety, walkability, access, and transportation diversity by improving crosswalks, building a two-mile universal trail network, and developing a volunteer-based driving program.

  2. Communication and Information

    Help older residents connect with a friendly voice through a Morning Greeting Call Program.

  3. Health and Community Services

    Ensure that older adults have access to information on available health services through a comprehensive online directory. Incorporate dementia-friendly concepts into local community planning.

Progress Report Download

The Bethel Region Age-Friendly Community Initiative focused its attention on diminishing the effects of social isolation and loneliness on its residents. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative rolled out a morning call program, where volunteers check in on local older adults and assist with food delivery. In collaboration with other community non-profit organizations, the initiative operates a free ridesharing program for older adults to help them get around. Walkability and community fitness was also a priority. To make crosswalks safer, the town installed dividers, which resulted in a decrease in traffic accidents. Additionally, the Bethel region completed construction of a two-mile accessible trail. Recreational opportunities include an indoor walking program in the winter and regular Tai Chi classes. Other programming includes digital literacy training. To inform locals about these opportunities, AFCI published a monthly newsletter.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Age-Friendly Readfield with Town of Readfield (2018)

Readfield, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Readfield's Age-Friendly Committee set out to enhance the town's public spaces and draw the community together. They purchased outdoor furniture to activate two spaces -- one outside the local public library and the other at Readfield Beach on Maranacook Lake. The beach's moveable Adirondack chairs give visitors a change to interact with each other. Additionally, the tables and chairs at the library allow residents to access free Wi-Fi service, even when the library building is closed. Library visitors of all wages can also rest there after enjoying the nearby story walk.

Age-Friendly Readfield with Town of Readfield (2021)

Readfield, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Organizers with Age-Friendly Readfield knew their town was in need of a facelift. To help meet the needs of residents facing food insecurity, they provided a local food bank with a sandwich sign board, rolling delivery cart and new cooler. They also upgraded the town library's outdoor space by adding Adirondack chairs and tables. Finally, they provided chairs and a kayak dock for Readfield's beach. A multigenerational group of volunteers cleaned up both the library park and beach. Organizers say these same volunteers will now be involved in programming at both outdoor spaces.

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

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AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

AARP Maine State Office

53 Baxter Boulevard
Suite 202
Portland, ME 04101
United States

Phone: 866-554-5380
Fax: 207-775-5727
Email: [email protected]