Early County, Georgia Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
1/13/2021

Lead Agency: Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGARC)

Regional Planning Organization/Metropolitan Planning Organization/Council on Government

Action Plan

In 2018, the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) became the first Age-Friendly Region in the United States. Grant funding was secured in five communities to enhance open spaces and reduce isolation among older adults. The daily challenges faced by older adults were exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to feelings of exclusion and difficulty accessing essential resources. The grant helped to address these issues, promoting independent and safe living for older adults. As an age-friendly region, there's been a rethinking of the regional plan to improve access to transportation, increase the availability of affordable housing, promote healthy aging, support civic engagement, and foster social connections, along with other support systems that align with the goal of an inclusive community for people of all ages.

Action Plan Highlights

  1. Outdoor Spaces

    SWGRC plans to ensure accessibility to clean, safe community centers, parks, and recreational facilities. They intend to apply for the AARP Community Challenge Grant and other grants to support these initiatives. Outdoor safety is a priority, with improvements planned for street lighting, pedestrian crossings, walkways, and increased police presence. An assessment will be conducted to evaluate recreational facilities and public spaces. Buildings will be made more accessible with features like elevators, ramps, and non-slip floors, and improved safety measures will be included in local planning.

  2. Transportation

    SWGRC focuses on offering public transportation that is safe, reliable, frequent, and affordable, and emphasizes educating the public about these options. Transportation services are also being made available specifically for people with disabilities. Additionally, there's a commitment to providing safe, well-maintained roadways, and ensuring well-regulated traffic flow, reflecting a comprehensive approach to transportation for all citizens.

  3. Housing

    SWGRC emphasizes housing options for older adults that are safe and near services. "Aging in place" home modification programs are available, and collaboration with the Housing Task Force is underway to educate and expand housing opportunities. Education on home ownership and repair programs is provided to older adults, and housing conferences and fairs are conducted to inform communities and stakeholders about available housing programs.

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Nearby AARP Community Challenge Grantees

Andrew College

Cuthbert, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public Spaces

Description: A town square and adjoining alleyway with newly painted murals that is a frequent gathering place for people of all ages will receive twelve new benches, lighting and a pergola to provide shad for visitors.

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 grantees

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AARP Georgia State Office

999 Peachtree Street NE
Suite 1110
Atlanta, GA 30309
United States

Phone: 866-295-7281
Fax: 404-881-6997
Email: [email protected]