South Hadley, Massachusetts Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
9/30/2020

Lead Agency: South Hadley Council on Aging

Government Agency

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. Respect and Inclusion

    Encourage people from underrepresented groups to hold decision-making positions on Town boards and committees.

  2. Health and Community Services

    Combat food insecurity by ensuring nutrition assistance programs are streamlined and accessible. Simplify the permitting system for emergency food distribution.

  3. Transportation

    Expand public transit service, including paratransit and increate affordable transportation options.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Belchertown Senior Center (2024)

Belchertown, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This senior center will install benches along a new paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks.

Town of Belchertown (2019)

Belchertown, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Improved wayfinding

Description: Located near schools and an assisted living community, the Lake Wallace Sensory Trail is designed to welcome trail users of all abilities, including those with limited mobility or sensory issues. The rope-guided trail with Braille markers -- one of four in the state -- serves as a model for future accessible projects. This project added new tactile signs in Braille. Another feature gives visitors the option to lower the new trailhead kiosk to wheelchair height for easy access. Signage along the trail points out intersections, resting spots and information about lake ecology and the site's history. Part of the Belchertown Heritage Trails network, the sensory trail has since attracted more additional and community involvement.

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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AARP Massachusetts State Office

One Beacon Street
Suite 2301
Boston, MA 02108
United States

Phone: 866-448-3621
Fax: 617-723-4224
Email: [email protected]