Surry, Maine Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
4/5/2017

Lead Agency: Thriving in Place Downeast (TiPD)

Coalition

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. Health and Community Services

    Expand on regional community paramedicine by incorporating multiple emergency services providers, the local critical access hospital and the town community health outreach project, providing resource referral, orientation, and advocacy support.

  2. Housing

    Develop a program with local civic and volunteer organizations to establish a list of trusted contractors, along with a directory of available loans and grants for home modifications, repair, and improvement.

  3. Outdoor Spaces

    Collaborate with local government to rehabilitate the town playground to create a multi-generational playspace and an age-friendly hiking trail.

Progress Report Download

Age-Friendly Coastal Communities -- a collaboration across nine towns, focused its age-friendly work on providing access to medical and social services, increasing opportunities for social engagement, helping residents age in place and giving older adults more transportation options. Its age-friendly progress report describes a number of successes. The region expanded communal meal options, as well as its food delivery service, for families facing food insecurity. It also created a network of volunteer contractors and tradespeople to help local older adults with basic home repairs. Additionally, Coastal Communities expanded their existing rideshare program to serve residents who don't drive. To engage older adults in decision-making, the region created focus groups in member towns. They also offered programming related to digital literacy, end-of-life planning and fitness and nutrition.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Surry Neighbors Helping Neighbors (2024)

Surry, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Older residents without internet access were missing vital town notices after the Post Office banned postings. To restore communication, the group built a kiosk beside the Post Office with three corkboard panels for official notices and social events, plus vibrant artwork to draw attention. Plans include a Little Free Library and seasonal plantings. The kiosk now serves as a central hub for information, helping older adults stay connected. Residents praised the improvement, and volunteers will maintain it year-round.

Town of Surry (2022)

Surry, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: After a fatal crash on Route 172, Surry installed gateway signs to alert drivers they were entering a busy village where pedestrians share the road. Residents helped choose the design, and the signs now greet motorists with a "Thank You for Driving Safely" message. The effort prompted more speed-limit signs and enforcement, easing fears for older adults who walk along narrow shoulders. Post Office staff noted relief for patrons' safety. One homeowner said, "The new Gateway signs... are slowly renewing my confidence," showing how a simple change restored peace of mind.

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

LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED

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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]