Readfield, Maine Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
5/17/2016

Lead Agency: Spectrum Generations

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. Outdoor Spaces

    Facilitate ocean use at local beaches by constructing railings near the water for older adults.

  2. Communication and Information

    Build technology skills through "Happy Hour" technology trainings at the local library, focusing on email, Facebook, smartphones, and tablets.

  3. Health and Community Services

    Assist older adults with health insurance and Medicare enrollment during Open Season by bringing state health insurance counselors into town offices.

Progress Report Download

Readfield's progress report celebrates the town's achievements related to public spaces, transportation, housing, civic engagement and social inclusion. The town added a kayak and canoe rack at the local beach and completed a new accessible trail system. To keep pedestrians safe, the town constructed new sidewalks and repainted crosswalks to make them more visible. Readfield now offers property tax relief for homeowners, as well as assistance with minor home repairs. Continuing education offerings and a social cafe initiative give older adults the opportunity to interact with friends and neighbors. Additionally, the town's Neighbors Calling Neighbors program helps ensure people living alone receive wellbeing checks.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Age-Friendly Readfield with Town of Readfield (2018)

Readfield, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Readfield's Age-Friendly Committee set out to enhance the town's public spaces and draw the community together. They purchased outdoor furniture to activate two spaces -- one outside the local public library and the other at Readfield Beach on Maranacook Lake. The beach's moveable Adirondack chairs give visitors a change to interact with each other. Additionally, the tables and chairs at the library allow residents to access free Wi-Fi service, even when the library building is closed. Library visitors of all wages can also rest there after enjoying the nearby story walk.

Age-Friendly Readfield with Town of Readfield (2021)

Readfield, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Organizers with Age-Friendly Readfield knew their town was in need of a facelift. To help meet the needs of residents facing food insecurity, they provided a local food bank with a sandwich sign board, rolling delivery cart and new cooler. They also upgraded the town library's outdoor space by adding Adirondack chairs and tables. Finally, they provided chairs and a kayak dock for Readfield's beach. A multigenerational group of volunteers cleaned up both the library park and beach. Organizers say these same volunteers will now be involved in programming at both outdoor spaces.

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]