Hialeah, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: Older adults walking near City Hall faced stressful crossings where traffic volume and limited visibility made it difficult to cross safely. For residents who rely on walking or public transportation, these conditions reduced confidence and limited routine trips. The City of Hialeah improved several crosswalks along a key corridor by increasing visibility and clarifying where pedestrians should cross. The work focused on making crossings easier to see and navigate for older adults moving between housing, civic buildings and nearby services. One longtime resident who uses a walker shared that the brighter crosswalks made the street feel less intimidating and safer to manage. The changes helped older adults move more comfortably through the area and continue everyday activities with greater confidence.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Miami, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Addressing community health

Description: In downtown Miami, where green space is scarce and many older adults face isolation, Friends of The Underline launched the Walk4Life walking club to help residents connect and stay active. Participants met weekly for guided walks and stretching along the new urban trail, with a solar-powered kiosk tracking miles and celebrating progress. More than 200 people joined the 10-week program, creating friendships and routines that extended beyond the walks. "This is the only time I push myself," said one participant, noting how the group gave her strength and purpose. The project proved that even simple movement, especially when shared outdoors, can bridge communities and improve well-being.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.