Akron, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility

Description: Summit County's housing crisis leaves families and older adults spending much of their income on shelter, limiting stability and aging in place. Habitat began building Silver Maple Ridge, a 16-home development with features like single-story layouts and blocking for grab bars. The project engaged more than 400 volunteers age 50-plus and educated 32 partner families. Three homes were completed and three more nearly so, and the effort prompted Akron's first new park in 40 years, adding green space for residents while creating long-term affordable housing.

Akron, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will create a vibrant plaza connecting Peoples Park with a mixed-use development. The space will promote active aging, mental stimulation, and social ties through dedicated programming for people age 50-plus.