Grand Island, NE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Improved wayfinding

Description: Grow Grand Island installed four sculptural, eight-foot-tall wayfinding totems in Railside, an area in the City's downtown. Designed to help visitors learn about Railside and Grand Island's history and art, the totems feature maps and short descriptions in English and Spanish. Each totem is customized based on its location. In addition, the totems include a QR code linking to historical information about the buildings downtown. This online content can be updated when needed. Project organizers say the totems spurred needed repairs for downtown sidewalks and helped garner funding for more wayfinding signs. As downtown grows, organizers say the totems will play an important role in helping pedestrians navigate and appreciate Grand Island.

Grand Island, NE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Engaging residents alongside thought leaders in problem solving

Description: Neighborhood engagement in Grand Island had declined after the pandemic, leaving residents disconnected. The project distributed 64 "neighboring kits" with tools for hosting meet-and-greets and introduced the concept during a leadership summit. Neighbors began organizing events like ice cream socials and driveway gatherings, fostering inclusion and accessibility. "Because we hosted in our driveway, our wheelchair-bound neighbor was now able to attend," one participant shared, showing how small actions can strengthen community ties.