Willmar, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Older adults and people with disabilities in rural Minnesota faced transportation barriers, limiting access to health care and community life. MMDC distributed 2,100 transit tokens and childcare passes, and introduced electric-assist tricycles at facilities to promote independence. These efforts reduced isolation, encouraged transit use and fostered intergenerational interaction. A project organizer noted that one resident has now been able to resume ridership and that she now enjoys a regained sense of independence. Stronger ties with with the community will guide future mobility planning.

Hutchinson, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: This project will pilot an on-demand transportation program for older adults age 50 and over and disabled individuals. The service will prioritize medical appointments, with non-medical rides based on driver availability.