Kennebunk, Maine Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
3/25/2015

Lead Agency: No Place Like Home

Non-profit

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

    Facilitate rides to daily errands and social events through a volunteer driver program.

  2. Outdoor Spaces

    Address the need for better wayfinding signage, parking improvements, and access to outdoor recreation information through an outdoor spaces committee.

  3. Health and Community Services

    Share information on home care options (medical and non-medical) for older adults available in the surrounding region by developing a resource guide.

Progress Report Download

Kennebunk's progress report focuses on transit, accessibility, housing affordability and community health. The Town worked with local nonprofits to create a fixed route transportation service, which connects affordable housing communities to the town center and local businesses. To make outdoor amenities more welcoming, Kennebunk installed an accessibility mat at a popular beach, which helps people with mobility challenges enjoy the water. Voters approved changes to the local zoning ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units, with at least six ADU permits approved since the policy change. Town staff conducted outreach to residents, informing them about Kennebunk's property tax assistance program. Furthermore, the town prioritized community health through a new medical equipment lending program. Additionally, a partnership with local farmers markets provides discounted, locally grown food to older adults and lower-income families.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Age-Friendly Portland (2022)

Portland, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Entrepreneurship and improved economic resilience

Description: This project piloted an age-friendly business designation in Portland. The designation encourages local businesses to adopt practices that accommodate older adult customers. Participating businesses receive a certificate, as well as window decals advertising their status as an age-friendly business. Additionally, the Ramp Up for Accessibility project provided portable ramps and wireless doorbells to locations that are open to the public.

Age-Friendly Saco (2018)

Saco, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Saco is a coastal community with seven miles of sandy beaches. Until recently, there was no beach access for people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. That changed thanks to the purchase and installation of three ADA-compliant beach mats. The mats run from a parking lot to the high tide mark, as well as parallel to the beach. Grant funding from AARP also helped Saco attract a donation from the local Rotary Club to purchase a beach wheelchair and beach walker. Lifeguards manage and loan out the accessibility equipment.

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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Connect with your AARP State Office

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]