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  1. AARP Livable Communities
 

AARP Community Challenge Grantees List by State: Idaho-Montana

More than 800 projects have been funded since our "quick-action" grant program began in 2017

AARP Livable Communities

Here's our complete state-by-state list of the AARP Community Challenge grants that have been awarded since our quick-action grant program began in 2017.

Grantees

Visit the AARP Community Challenge Main Page

About the 2021 Challenge

About the 2020 Challenge

About the 2019 Challenge

About the 2018 Challenge

About the 2017 Challenge

  • Ada County: Ada County Highway District Commuteride
    Challenge funds will help a workplace mobility pilot program assist small businesses in making facility or mobility enhancements that increase transportation options for employees. (2021)
  • Boise/Kuna: Idaho Smart Growth 
    On October 21, 2017, the Bernie Fisher Parking Lot in downtown Kuna was transformed into a pop-up plaza project that demonstrated the benefits of public gathering places. [WWL] Video (2017)
  • Boise: Idaho Walk Bike Alliance
    To support neighborhood efforts to calm traffic, this project will provide training and free loaner materials for residents to conduct pop up demonstrations in their communities. (2019)
  • Caldwell: Destination Caldwell
    The grant will be used to improve downtown Caldwell by installing oversized games (like Jenga, cornhole and chess), mosaic tables and benches in a local plaza. (2018)
  • Cascade: City of Cascade
    This project includes paving a half-mile walking trail, creating year-round opportunities for outdoor exercise and nature viewing. (2020)
  • Driggs: City of Driggs
    The project will install one concrete outdoor foosball table and one concrete outdoor chess/game table and stools in a new public plaza space in the downtown area. (2019)
  • Glenns Ferry: City of Glenns Ferry
    This grant will activate a new public space with swings, a picnic table, a shade structure and the supplies needed to assist in park construction. (2020)
  • Hidden Springs: Hidden Springs Town Association
    The creation of an all-weather path for the Hidden Springs community and greater Treasure Valley will provide an outdoor recreational option for all ages along scenic riparian trails, a community farm and agricultural fields. (2021)
  • Lincoln County: Lincoln County Youth Commission 
    Challenge funds will be used to create an indoor fitness track (to be called the "Lincoln Loop") with a comfortable, accessible walking surface in a climate-controlled environment. (2021)
  • Pocatello: NeighborWorks Pocatello
    This grant will provide for a mobile "Block Party Trailer" to be utilized throughout Pocatello in order to activate existing public spaces and create new spaces for social gatherings. (2018)
  • Pocatello: Growling Garden
    Families will receive a raised-bed garden, soil, seeds and plants as part of a food-producing training program. (2021)
  • Potlatch: Washington, Idaho and Montana Railway History Preservation Group 
    An historic building will be renovated and updated to offer speeder- and rail-cycle rides to the public. Accompanying activities will take visitors to the Potlatch Depot museum, increasing historical knowledge, community pride of place — and fun! (2021)
  • Sandpoint: Kaniksu Land Trust
    To allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy nature, this project will develop a half mile nature trail with seating in a peaceful, undeveloped setting. (2019)
  • Victor: Valley of the Tetons Library
    A public library will undergo improvements to increase the accessibility of the building for members of the community including new steps and an outdoor area with free internet access. (2019)
  • West Gooding: Gooding Public Library Foundation
    This grant will create an accessible outdoor commons area with seating and coverings for library patrons to read outside. (2020)

  • Batavia: Batavia MainStreet 
    A one-day event educated residents about mobility from different perspectives, including walking, bicycling, pushing a stroller and traveling in a wheelchair. (2017)
  • Chicago: Chicago Department of Transportation
    This grant will support the installation of temporary parklets in parking lanes along a commercial corridor and sidewalk enhancements to improve pedestrian safety, community engagement and economic development. (2018)
  • Chicago: Metropolitan Mayors Caucus
    Grant funds will be used for a demonstration of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and for the development of model code language throughout the metropolitan area to increase awareness about and the production of this housing type. (2018)
  • Chicago: The Recyclery Collective
    In collaboration with local artists, this project will create "Art Potholes" to repair streets riddled with potholes. (2019)
  • Chicago: Rogers Park Business Alliance
    A safe and inviting community space in a small public plaza called a "People Spot," which includes benches, plantings, and wayfinding and related beautification elements will be created in a high pedestrian traffic area of the Clark Street commercial corridor. (2019)
  • Chicago: Elevate Energy
    This project will help low-income senior homeowners make comprehensive renovations to their two-unit buildings. The improvements include making accessibility upgrades and addressing deferred maintenance which will ultimately make the buildings less costly and stressful to operate, and add a new source of income for homeowners. (2019)
  • Chicago: El Paseo Community Garden
    The project, "El Convivio," will add an ADA compliant planting station, outdoor kitchen area, accessible seating and a walking path and seating at a community garden. (2020)
  • Chicago: North Lawndale Employment Network 
    This grant will bridge the digital divide in North Lawndale for residents of all ages by providing free community Wi-Fi and online connectivity for residents living within a 1.5-mile radius of North Lawndale Employment Network's workforce campus. (2020)
  • Evanston: City of Evanston
    This grant will create a guide to help homeowners learn about and build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their property. (2020)
  • Joppa: Village of Joppa (no website)
    A community park will be updated with accessible seating, picnic tables, swings and other features that can be used by people of all ages and abilities. (2021)
  • North Lawndale: Jesus Word Center
    A vacant lot will be converted into a community garden that can provide fresh produce to residents who are living in an area with limited access to healthy food. (2021)
  • Springfield: Downtown Springfield
    This grant will sustain access to fresh, healthy foods in the Springfield community by improving the Old Capitol Farms Market's purchasing system, allowing older residents to shop at the market and reduce their possibility of exposure to COVID-19. (2020)
  • Wilmette: Go Green Wilmette 
    Volunteers and advocates demonstrated active transportation options and infrastructure by using Go Green’s “pop-up supplies” tool kit. [WWL] (2017)
  • Urbana: City of Urbana
    Challenge funds will benefit the Growing Community Initiative, which invites local artists to design and install works of art in selected local gardens. (2021)

  • Center Township: Edna Martin Christian Center
    To improve senior-related food security while addressing volunteer and job opportunities, this project will create an urban gardening space that will provide additional food access, recreation, and income opportunities for area seniors. (2020)
  • Fort Wayne: Bridge of Grace Compassionate Ministries Center
    This project will make the Mount Vernon Park Neighborhood a more walkable, safe, and healthy community by installing improvements in neighborhood public spaces (community sidewalks and right of ways) that celebrate the diversity, history, and culture of the area and by hosting intergenerational community events. (2019)
  • Gary: Legacy Foundation
    This grant will support safe biking by residents of all ages and abilities and improve connectivity between downtown venues and outdoor recreation options at the park by adding bike lanes and directional signs to a central downtown thoroughfare. (2020)
  • Gary: City of Gary Redevelopment Commission
    The grant will help provide for a new park on a formerly blighted vacant lot and offer free or low-cost events, programming and amenities to the general public. (2018)
  • Indianapolis: IndyGo
    Grant funds will be used to offer a transit stipend and training to the older adults living in low-income housing. The goal is to increase the use of rideshare so the residents can travel independently to health care, shopping, recreation and other destinations. (2018)
  • Indianapolis and Columbus: Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana
    This grant will provide shopping carts to help food-insecure seniors who are participating in "Senior Shopping Days" the ability to transport food from pantry sites to their vehicle without the physical strain of carrying heavy food items. (2020)
  • Indianapolis: Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc.
    Transforming a vacant lot alongside a neighborhood center will create a community orchard with native shade trees, benches and accessible pathways. (2021)
  • Kendallville: City of Kendallville
    An abandoned lot will be transformed into a usable park space with a stage, tables, seating and an area for food trucks and local vendors. (2021)
  • Kokomo: YMCA of Kokomo
    More than a dozen wayfinding signs were created and installed along the City-Line Trolley route and the Walk of Excellence Trail. (2017)
  • Loogootee: Loogootee Beautification Board
    A large mural by a local artist will be installed on the side of an abandoned building that's being renovated as a multi-use community space. (2021)
  • Muncie: Sustainable Muncie Corporation
    In order to connect residents to the digital world in a comfortable and inviting environment, public internet access will be provided in areas inside and outside of a well-connected community center. (2020)
  • South Bend: South Bend Heritage
    An alleyway connecting senior citizen apartments to the rest of the community will be transformed into a vibrant and comfortable outdoor space with benches, picnic tables, games, plants and artistic touches. (2021)

  • Afton: City of Afton
    This grant will develop a portable parklet that can be moved to support social events at various locations and allow more opportunities for people of all ages to engage with each other while shopping, dining, watching parades, and enjoying popular Lawn Chair Nights. (2020)
  • Avoca: Avoca Public Library
    Grant funds will be used toward the construction of a musical park space that will feature outdoor musical instruments and a library green space that can serve as a gathering place for people of all ages and abilities. Video (2018)
  • Carlisle: City of Carlisle
    To help create a more walkable and attractive community, the city installed 10 benches, 10 planters, eight bicycle racks and 20 banner-sign mounts for its trails and downtown. (2017)
  • Clarion: City of Clarion
    A pocket park will be constructed within the city's central business district. (2021)
  • Des Moines: Iowa League of Cities
    This project aims to demonstrate smart cities innovation in rural communities by holding educational workshops on data analytics in local government, followed by an immersive quick-action demonstration project. (2019)
  • Des Moines: Home Opportunities Made Easy
    This project will help construct an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) demonstration in an existing urban neighborhood to introduce the ADU as a housing alternative for the area and lead to an increased range of housing options for the community. (2020)
  • Des Moines: Des Moines Historical Society — Waveland Trolley Loop Project
    A park and interactive trolley sculpture will be created on a vacant, long-neglected site. The revitalized space will feature informational signage about the Waveland Trolley (which ceased operations in the 1940s) and life in Des Moines during the early 20th century. (2021)
  • Dyersville: Dyersville Economic Development Corporation
    As part of flood recovery efforts, grant funds will support amenities for a community plaza and amphitheater created in a block of green space near downtown riverfront development. (2019)
  • Estherville: City of Estherville
    Playground swings suitable for users of varied ages, skills and sizes will be installed at parks throughout  the city. (2021)
  • Glidden: City of Glidden
    This project will create a trail that will connect the city's Aquatic Center and Northland Park and will include safety features to allow for safe highway crossings as part of the trail. (2019)
  • Harlan: City of Harlan
    This project will create a StoryWalk, a trail that combines walking with stops for reading a narrative, which is an innovative way to enjoy reading and the outdoors at the same time. (2019)
  • Keokuk: Keokuk Parks Foundation
    This grant will help convert existing tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts. (2018)
  • Malvern: Golden Hills Resource Conservation & Development
    This project will improve two important public corridors within the community — the Wabash Trace entryway and the Art Alley — with art installations, accessible benches and landscaping. (2021)
  • Manning: Main Street Manning
    The grant will fund decorative lighting along Main Street to increase the safety and use of public spaces along the three-block corridor. (2018)
  • Manning: City of Manning
    Display cases will be installed in locations throughout the city in order to protect and share cultural items of significance to the community. (2021)
  • Stanton: Stanton Community Foundation
    In honor of the town’s Swedish history, Swedish-themed mile markers will be installed along the Stanton Greenbelt Trail. (2021)
  • Woodbine: Woodbine Main Street
    The grant will provide for interpretive signs to be mounted on buildings and in pocket parks along Main Street in order to share the history of the community and serve as a focal point for new walking loops throughout the downtown. (2018)

  • Bartlett: City of Bartlett (no website)
    Challenge funds will help develop a park on Main Street to encourage outdoor activities and community gatherings. (2021)
  • Coffeyville: Coffeyville's Reawakening Neighborhood Initiative
    This "Porchology" project will impact the way residents think about using their porches to improve their lives, homes, and neighborhoods by rebuilding four neglected dwellings with railings, trim, safe steps, porch swings, hanging plants, a birdhouse, and more. (2020)
  • Gardner: City of Gardner
    This grant will fund a pop-up demonstration of an ADA-accessible, portable parklet as part of a larger process encouraging places for people, which is a key part of Gardner's downtown revitalization strategy. (2018)
  • Kansas City: Rosedale Development Association
    New flooring, lighting, accessible seating and COVID-19 precautions will enable a community space to once again be used for events, workshops, parties and meetings. (2021)
  • Lawrence: United Way of Douglas County
    This grant will enhance the usability of a successful public bus system for disabled and aging residents by installing culturally-relevant and artistic bus stops - including benches and shelters. (2020)
  • Savonburg: City of Savonburg
    A half-mile walking trail and amenities will be added to the city's community park. (2021)
  • Wichita: Wichita Public Library Foundation 
    Walk Wichita participated in Wichita’s Open Streets event in September 2017 by launching three walking tours through the PocketSights app. The tours were accessible and navigable for people with varying degrees of mobility. [WWL] Video (2017)
  • Wichita: City of Wichita
    The city will purchase 50 hotspot devices bringing the project total to 90 devices. (2019)

  • Bowling Green: WKU Aging Center for Gerontology 
    Funds were granted to develop a mural by alumni of the Over Fifty Academy (a leadership group within the Age-Friendly Bowling Green effort) and Companions of Respected Elders, a student group at Western Kentucky University. (2017)
  • Danville: Heart of Danville
    The grant will support the installation of the first community mural in downtown Danville and engage 1,000 residents in the design and painting of the mural. (2018)
  • Danville: Community Arts Center
    Grant funds will help facilitate mosaic workshops with students at the Kentucky School for the Deaf with the goal of including their contributions in a large, visible piece of public artwork installed on one of the most prominent buildings in town. (2019)
  • Harrodsburg: Campbellsville University Harrodsburg Conover Education Center
    To beautify one of Kentucky's oldest streets, long-lasting concrete planters with be installed, trees will be planted, and signs will be installed — all of which will be maintained by resident volunteers or local organizations. (2020)
  • Lexington: City of Lexington Aging and Disability Services
    The grant will fund the development of an accessory dwelling units manual to encourage the construction of ADUs so caregivers and family members can live in close proximity of an adult in need of in-home support. (2018)
  • Lexington: Seedleaf
    The project will provide gardening tools and resources designed for use by older adults that will be accessible to residents volunteering at a free u-pick garden. (2019)
  • Louisville: Louisville Metro Government
    This project will address pedestrian safety issues by prioritizing pedestrian access to nearby amenities at a family life center and neighborhood park. Enhancements include improved visibility at crosswalks, upgrades/repairs to infrastructure and beautification. (2019)
  • Louisville: Louisville Metro Government
    This grant will help improve sidewalks, pavers, benches and art to increase safety and access to green spaces and artistic places along the 9th Street corridor. Video (2018)
  • Louisville: Center For Neighborhoods
    This project will support ongoing efforts to create a safer, more inviting main street by implementing plans co-created by area stakeholders, including the installation of permanent lighting; pedestrian pathways; an intergenerational, historical mural; planter boxes; signage; and more. (2020)
  • Louisville: ElderServe
    To provide a safe, comfortable space for older residents who are waiting for transportation, a bus stop shelter will be installed that is both functional and visually pleasing near a popular senior center. (2020)
  • Newport: ReNewport
    This project will enhance access and use of current bus routes in the neighborhood by adding seating, as well as other beautification and amenities for bus stops, such as bike racks, trees, flowers and trashcans. (2019)
  • Owensboro and Daviess Counties: Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum
    A state of the art, user-friendly audio guide will be purchased for the museum to increase accessibility and enhance the educational experience. (2021)
  • Pikeville: City of Pikeville
    Grant funds will help create a vibrant public place — a civic plaza and outdoor arts venue — that will revitalize underutilized space in downtown. (2019)
  • Whitesburg: Appalshop Inc.
    A popular trail that serves as a transportation and exercise corridor for a rural town will be updated with resurfacing, a large crosswalk, signage, stencil art and benches. (2021)

  • Abbeville: Abbeville Main Street
    Challenge funds will support the installation of a walking trail and fitness stations in the Lafitte Drive-In Park. (2021)
  • Baton Rouge: Center for Planning Excellence
    The grant will provide lighting, safe pedestrian crossings and programming for walking clubs to increase the safety and pedestrian activity near Longfellow Park. (2018)
  • Baton Rouge: Downtown Development District
    Several high-visibility, artistic crosswalks will be created along a core street in the capital city's downtown to improve pedestrian safety and enhance the area's appeal. (2021)
  • DeRidder: City of DeRidder
    Grant funds will be used toward the creation of faux-brick crosswalks at 17 downtown intersections and the installation of wayfinding directional signs to improve walkability and access to cultural, social and healthy foods. (2018)
  • Erath: Town of Erath
    Bicycle racks will be installed in the downtown and community park. (2021)
  • New Orleans: FitLot
    The construction of a footbridge and walking path connected this community fitness park to the Lafitte Greenway, an active rails-to-trails pedestrian path. In addition, FitLot coaches provided more than 36 hours of free fitness coaching to older people from a community that suffers from one of the largest health disparity gaps in the nation. [WWL] Video (2017)
  • New Orleans: Water Wise Gulf South
    Funds will help establish a community orchard and garden to be used as a gathering space for events and green infrastructure demonstration projects. (2019)
  • New Orleans: Sankofa CDC
    Funding will support intergenerational, nature-centered activities such as fishing, canoeing and hiking at the Sankofa Wetland Park and Nature Trail. (2021)
  • Opelousas: City of Opelousas
    This project will help to create a more vibrant main street through accessible outdoor seating for four public gathering spaces, picnic tables that allow wheelchair access, and ADA benches. (2019)
  • Shreveport: Shreveport Common
    ADA compliant tables will be installed to complete the Art Bosque Food Truck Court with outdoor seating, giving neighbors and community a gathering place to connect with friends and embrace healthy living. (2020)
  • Tallulah: City of Tallulah
    Funds will be used to create new crosswalks designed to beautify the area, help increase physical activity, and draw attention to the crosswalks for drivers who may not be familiar with the area. (2019)
  • Ville Platte: The Acosta Foundation
    A mural, lighting and benches will be installed on Main Street to commemorate the local Tee Cotton Bowl, an annual high school football game and week-long event (recently featured in the PBS documentary Flat Town) promoting racial reconciliation. (2021)

  • Augusta, Bangor and Westbrook: Bicycle Coalition of Maine
    Projects in three communities will improve pedestrian safety by increasing crosswalk visibility, shortening crossings and calming traffic. These short-term demonstrations are critical first steps toward installing permanent pedestrian safety enhancements. (2020)
  • Belfast: Aging Well in Waldo County
    This project will help create and enhance public spaces within two libraries in the community by making repairs, beautifying the spaces and increasing accessibility. (2019)
  • Bethel: Bethel Area Age-Friendly 
    The grant was used to construct a display and kit featuring tools and household accessories that can make a home safer and help prevent falls. (2017)
  • Bethel Region: Age-Friendly Bethel
    The Bethel Region Age-Friendly Community Initiative — in collaboration with the Bethel Congo Crafters, the Bethel Area Arts and Music Program and the Gem Theater — will install decorative wooden benches and picnic tables in well-trafficked outdoor areas in six regional towns. (2021)
  • Blue Hill: Healthy Peninsula
    This project will support the development of a Traveling Tool Table — a collection of useful, affordable devices to help older people remain independent — that will be launched at local libraries, some of the most popular gathering places in the community. (2019)
  • Blue Hill: Blue Hill Heritage Trust
    The grant will support the construction of a new age-friendly trail in Blue Hill in order to increase connectivity in the traditional downtown and adjacent areas. (2018)
  • Bowdoinham: Advisory Committee on Aging 
    Raised planters were constructed for residents who had stopped gardening because they were unable to keep a traditional, in-the-ground garden. [WWL] (2017)
  • Dexter: Town of Dexter Age-Friendly Community Committee
    This project will create “Pop-Up Universities” to provide older adults with meaningful activities as well as make improvements to increase seating at Wayside Park, which will enable people with mobility challenges to be able to navigate the park and enjoy public events. (2020)
  • Eastport: City of Eastport
    The grant will provide for the installation of outdoor musical instruments in Cony Park, further activating the public space and encouraging people of all ages to play music. (2018)
  • Eliot: Eliot Aging in Place Committee
    Residents will benefit from a more vibrant public park when five new benches are installed, and provide spots for people to rest during exercise or strolls along the river. (2020)
  • Freeport: Town of Freeport 
    The town will bring the community together for an outdoor event featuring a hot air balloon experience for people of all ages and physical abilities. (2021)
  • Fryeburg: Fryeburg Age-Friendly Community Taskforce
    The community will create a recreation trail designed to be easily walkable by older adults and those with mobility challenges. The path will ultimately be a one-mile loop trail that features a pedestrian bridge, benches and signage for people of all ages to enjoy. (2020)
  • Gardiner: City of Gardiner
    This grant will help in developing a pop-up demonstration near the public library of different sidewalk treatments in order to engage input prior to any permanent improvements being made as part of Gardiner's age-friendly plan. (2018)
  • Hallowell: Vision Hallowell
    The purchase and installation of a 24-foot-long aluminum ramp will allow convenient and easy access to Hallowell’s busy waterfront bulkhead for older adults, people with mobility challenges, young children and those with strollers. (2020)
  • Liberty: Citizens' Association of Liberty Lakes
    To increase safe access to swimming and easy entry into two public swimming areas, new steps, handrails and other amenities will be added. Picnic tables and benches will also be installed to encourage the public to gather and spend time in these natural outdoor spaces. (2020)
  • Millinocket: Town of Millinocket
    The project will enhance walking and biking safety for residents by adding calming measures in high traffic areas throughout the town that nearby essential services and recreational opportunities. (2020)
  • Mount Vernon: Mount Vernon Community Partnership Corporation
    To help residents age in place, grant funds will go toward a Tool Library to provide easy access to tools, especially for older adults in the community and volunteers who assist them. (2019)
  • North Yarmouth: North Yarmouth Fire Rescue 
    The department installed Knox Home Box key safes outside the homes of older residents so first responders can access a key or code for rapid entry into the home in case of an emergency. [WWL] (2017)
  • Old Orchard Beach: Old Orchard Beach Community Friendly Connection
    This project will contribute to community efforts to revitalize and re-energize an entire block by engaging the neighborhood in a collaborative effort to clean up, restore, and refresh Atlantic Courts Park and Washington Ave district, including a walkable sidewalk demonstration. (2019)
  • Portland: Portland Trails
    This project will upgrade a rustic trail in an urban greenspace into a trail that is accessible to wheelchairs and people of different abilities and improve access to walking, cycling options, and areas of natural beauty. (2019)
  • Portland: Portland Downtown 
    The grant-funded project will activate blighted alleyways with murals that use old doors, lighting, greenery and creative overhead treatments to turn the corridors into engaging multiactivity spaces.  (2021) 
  • Presque Isle: City of Presque Isle
    The improvements to the Bike & Walking Trail will help increase use of the paved, lit trail, residents' movement and health, and opportunities for community member engagement. (2019)
  • Raymond: Raymond Village Library
    The grant will fund a new intergenerational, adaptive garden to promote activity and engagement among all age groups and provide food for the local food pantry. (2018)
  • Readfield: Age-Friendly Community Committee
    The grant will allow the community to revitalize an intergenerational outdoor space to include seating, bike racks and picnic tables at the historic Readfield Fairgrounds. (2018)
  • Readfield: Age-Friendly Readfield 
    Funding will be used to create a kayak dock, provide outdoor seating at the library and local beach, and acquire equipment for curbside deliveries at the community food pantry. (2021)
  • Saco: Age Friendly Saco
    The grant funding will enable the city to install ADA-compliant beach mats and devices to improve mobility and accessibility to local beaches for all. Video (2018)
  • South Portland: Age-Friendly South Portland 
    By demonstrating street-level safety features (such as lane delineators, signage and curb extensions), this project will improve pedestrian and bicycle safety, increase crosswalk visibility, shorten street crossing distances and calm traffic. (2021)
  • Sullivan: Age-Friendly Sullivan 
    A vacant lot adjacent to a playground will be used for a walking trail and fitness stations. (2021)
  • Wayne: Aging at Home 
    Two flashing traffic signs and two “Stop for Pedestrians” signs were purchased and installed along a busy roadway. [WWL] (2017)
  • Wayne: Aging At Home 
    To help protect pedestrians and drivers, crossing signals equipped with flashing beacons and arrows will be installed in the community's downtown. (2021)

  • Annapolis: Annapolis Arts District
    Funding will allow the community to install artistic bike racks throughout the arts district to encourage a safer, more bikeable community for all ages. (2018)
  • Baltimore: Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service 
    This project will create a community network to build the capacity of older adults to engage in public policy and knowledge-sharing discussions focused on housing, advocacy and consumer issues. (2021)
  • Baltimore: ReBUILD Johnston Square Neighborhood Organization
    Bee Safe, a crosswalk art project, will engage local teens and other residents to design and create artistic crosswalks that will slow traffic, increase the safety of crossings for school children and celebrate neighborhood identity. (2021)
  • Baltimore: Pigtown Main Street 
    As part of a long-term infrastructure improvement project, a pop-up demonstration park event was held at an intersection in need of safety enhancements. [WWL] (2017)
  • Baltimore: Baltimore City Office of Information & Technology (BCIT)
    As part of a smart city initiative, an online tool will be developed that will allow residents and businesses to more easily access and use city services — for example, apply for government services and pay taxes — that can improve their daily lives. This tool will empower all city residents so that they have an efficient, meaningful experience when they engage with government. (2019)
  • Baltimore: Bon Secours Community Works
    A memorial park for the first female firefighter in Maryland to die in the line of duty is being created for multi-generational use by local residents. Necessary infrastructure will be purchased and installed to help make the creation of this park a reality. (2020)
  • Baltimore: Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service 
    This project will create a community network to build the capacity of older adults to engage in public policy and knowledge-sharing discussions focused on housing, advocacy and consumer issues. (2021)
  • Baltimore: ReBUILD Johnston Square Neighborhood Organization
    Bee Safe, a crosswalk art project, will engage local teens and other residents to design and create artistic crosswalks that will slow traffic, increase the safety of crossings for school children and celebrate neighborhood identity. (2021)
  • Berlin: Town of Berlin
    This grant will allow the town to purchase tables and seating to be set up during events that occur on Main Street, providing a place to sit for older residents and strengthening community engagement. (2018) 
  • District Heights: City of District Heights
    Grant funding will be used to improve an outdoor space with new amenities to promote community engagement for all ages. (2018)
  • Hagerstown: Washington County Commission on Aging
    This rural county will develop a mobile program to connect isolated clients with staff who can provide in-person services and resources. (2020)
  • Severna Park: Olde Severna Park Improvement Association
    Funding from this grant will be used to install new pedestrian controlled crosswalk warning systems and intersections connected to a Rails-to-Trails project, making the area safer for pedestrians of all ages. (2018)

  • Belchertown: Town of Belchertown
    This project will be used toward wayfinding components of the Lake Wallace Sensory Trail that helps to improve quality of life for residents, provide new recreational and educational opportunities, and contribute to the town's economic vitality. (2019)
  • Beverly: Beverly Main Streets
    Fifty senior residents will have raised garden beds installed and planted with flowers and vegetable plants in front of their homes. To combat social isolation, they’ll be matched with local families who will visit and assist with the gardening. (2020)
  • Boston: City of Boston
    Age-friendly benches will be installed in each of the main street districts to help engage older residents and enhance local economic activity. This project will go toward developing a framework for a sustainable city-wide bench program that addresses longer-term issues of installation and maintenance. (2019)
  • Boston: City of Boston
    The Boston Public Library will add locations to its free, 24-hour Outdoor Wi-Fi Program so people can access high-speed internet services through workstations located outside of library buildings. (2021)
  • Boston: Urban Farming Institute of Boston
    The institute will build and install raised "Grow Boxes" for residents hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic so they can grow fresh, healthy food. (2021)
  • Brockton: Old Colony YMCA
    The East Bridgewater community will better connect its residents with local trails by installing wayfinding signage, ADA-compliant benches and accessible pathways along the Hiking Viking Trail. (2018)
  • Chelsea: City of Chelsea
    Using community designed public art and quick build place-making tools, this project will beautify and activate one full city block on Division Street. This is the first important step to link the heart of downtown with the waterfront via a low stress neighborway street. (2019)
  • Greenfield: City of Greenfield
    A parking lot will be transformed into a vibrant pocket park and community gathering spot in the center of the downtown area. Plans include the creation of a rain garden, a new bench at an existing bus stop, a chess table with chairs and a bike pump/repair station. (2020)
  • Lynn: Beyond Walls, Inc.
    This project will construct and activate a custom parklet program, creating public space platforms that convert curbside parking and other elements of the streetscape into vibrant community spaces. (2019)
  • Lynn: City of Lynn
    The funded project will improve public access and amenities and provide arts and cultural programming at two downtown public spaces, enabling safe outdoor gatherings for the community’s diverse population of older adults. (2021)
  • Middlesex County: Clear Path for Veterans New England 
    Challenge funds will help in the creation of Clear Path's Memorial Courtyard, which will serve as an outdoor space "where Veterans, families, and the general public can reflect, remember and enjoy the enduring spirit of the United States Military." (2021)
  • Natick: Metropolitan Area Planning Council
    The council developed and promoted changes to address the specific mobility, recreational and logistical needs of older adults so they could use local off-road trails. [WWL] (2017)
  • Roxbury and North Dorchester: Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative
    Dynamic virtual spaces for intergenerational dialogue will be created so residents can connect online to address community issues, attend workshops and join support groups. (2020)
  • Springfield: Pioneer Valley Transit Authority
    This grant will be used to pilot bench installations around bus stops to enable better travel experiences for seniors and disabled individuals who use public transit. (2018)
  • Westford: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell
    This grant will serve older adults by being used to purchase tools and supplies in order to deliver critical home repairs to low-income homeowners. (2018)

  • Bessemer: City of Bessemer 
    Artistic bicycle stands were installed to provide secure bike parking and encourage people to pedal rather than drive. (2017)
  • Detroit: Eden Gardens Block Club
    This grant will help create a multigenerational community-built playground in an area currently without any safe, nearby play resources. (2018)
  • Detroit: The Literacy Center
    Designed to develop an innovative transportation model for seniors, veterans and the disabled, this pilot project will deploy electric autonomous passenger shuttles for the purpose of medical appointments, pharmacy visits and community shopping. (2019)
  • East Lansing: Michigan State University (MSU)/AgeAlive
    A remotely conducted Senior Ambassador and Lifelong Learning Program will be developed and piloted. Data collection will focus on the impact of virtual social programs on social isolation, loneliness and quality of life in older adults. (2020)
  • Flint: Carriage Town Neighborhood Association
    With the help of the city, a university and a foundation, a Flint neighborhood will renovate a park by installing lights and a footbridge that connects residents to the downtown area. (2018)
  • Hamtramck: City of Hamtramck
    This project will create more equitable access to city services by providing multi-lingual information about low-cost transportation options and installing bus benches at locations frequented by older adults and children. (2021)
  • Hamtramck: Eastern Michigan University 
    Challenge funds will be used to temporarily tranform a downtown alley into a pedestrian-friendly route and community gathering space. Feedback from the short-term project will be used to inform the final design. (2021)
  • Lansing: Allen Neighborhood Center
    A bike repair station will be installed in Hunter Park allowing community members, neighbors and visitors to the area to service their bicycles independently. (2019)
  • Rochester Hills: City of Rochester Hills
    Grant funds will provide for an intergenerational outdoor exercise space to include equipment, a water fountain and benches. (2018)
  • Wayne: Wayne Main Street 
    An underutilized alleyway owned by the city was transformed into a gathering and event space. Video (2017)
  • Statewide: League of Michigan Bicyclists
    Communities throughout the state will have access to a lending library of bike safety items, including separators for protected bike lanes and curb extenders for use in piloting and testing local infrastructure improvements. (2021)

  • Burnsville: City of Burnsville
    This grant will help to install vibrant crosswalks and pedestrian safety measures at an intersection identified by the community as needing improvements. (2018)
  • Falcon Heights: Philando Castile Peace Garden Committee
    This project will provide groundbreaking, garden enhancement, soil testing and a foundational level of planting and pathway creation for a new public space and peace garden, created to memorialize Philando Castile and unify and restore the community. (2020)
  • Friendship Park: Family Service Rochester 
    A pocket park in a diverse, low-income, multigenerational neighborhood will be improved by new trees, seating and a multilingual information kiosk. (2021)
  • Grand Rapids: Get Fit Itasca and Itasca County Family YMCA
    This project will create a focal point for pedestrian use of a river bank near downtown by installing public art, a map kiosk, and benches to encourage socialization and connection among people of all ages and abilities. (2019)
  • Hibbing: Hibbing Farmers Market
    This project will provide sheltered seating at a market entrance and help older adults by providing them with a weekly supply of fresh fruits and vegetables through the Senior Power of Produce program. (2021)
  • Luverne: Project Food Forest
    Improvements will be made to the Prairie Ally Outdoor Center by adding three commissioned sculptural trellises to the whole food forest and two circular picnic tables, allowing for people across generations to explore, sit and connect and enjoy nature. (2020)
  • Minneapolis: Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota
    This grant will provide support to deliver a mobile workshop in eight communities across Minnesota designed to help community leaders make their neighborhoods more accessible and bikeable. (2018)
  • New Ulm: Downtown Action Team/Minnesota Main Street
    This grant will enable the installation of two benches — each featuring historical information — and a table to foster connectivity and social interaction in the historic downtown and add stops to a self-guided walking tour of the area. (2018)
  • Northfield: FiftyNorth and Age-friendly Northfield
    To encourage attendance by older adults and people with mobility challenges, this project will improve access to the city's numerous outdoor events by providing seating positioned and reserved specifically for seniors and handicapped individuals. (2019)
  • St. Paul: Department of Public Works 
    The city made crosswalks more visible to roadway users by adding art and creative features and installed, for demonstration purposes, temporary pedestrian safety elements to improve walkability. (2017)
  • St. Paul: District 1 Community Council
    Funding will be used to beautify recently installed traffic circles with gardens to accompany pedestrian and bicycle improvements. (2018)
  • St. Paul: District 6 Planning Council 
    Permanent message centers, used to display multilingual community and events information, were installed along the Rice Street corridor in the North End (2017)
  • St. Paul: District 6 Planning Council
    Benches with art embedded in them will be installed for visitors to enjoy the Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary better and have a place to rest, enjoy the outdoors and have social connections. (2020)
  • St. Paul: East Side Freedom Library
    A diverse collection of people will be engaged to help improve housing in the community and learn how to address the policies, economics and systems through which the housing crisis was constructed. (2020)
  • St. Paul: Hamline Midway Coalition
    This project will create an improved pedestrian path buffered by raised planters, enhancing pedestrian accessibility and safety for residents and shoppers reliant on walking and transit. (2019)
  • St. Paul: St. Anthony Park Community Council
    Artistic benches, a mural and creative crosswalks will be installed to connect underserved residents (many of whom are older adults, people with disabilities or people of color) along the shortest path to a light rail station. (2021)
  • Shakopee: City of Shakopee
    A thriving community garden needs to be moved from its current location due to a new development. This project will allow the city to convert a vacant lot into a more centrally located and accessible space. (2021)
  • Wadena County and the cities of Brainerd, Cass Lake, Little Falls and Long Prairie: Region Five Development Commission
    Transit passes, transit training and memberships to a health and wellness center will be provided to 50 low-income seniors, veterans and members of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. (2021)

  • Greenville: Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church
    A community garden that supplies fresh produce to low and moderate-income families will receive new fencing, and hoop houses so produce can be grown year-round. (2020)
  • Gulfport: City of Gulfport
    The grant was used to create Bark Park on an acre of property at the new Brickyard Bayou Park, which is located in a part of the city that was devastated during Hurricane Katrina. [WWL] Video (2017)
  • Gulfport: City of Gulfport, Economic Development Department
    Funding will be used to create an outdoor interactive classroom with nature trails, educational play structures and a small amphitheater in a new park located in a low-income area that was struck by Hurricane Katrina. (2018)
  • Gulfport: City of Gulfport
    This project will add a safe weather pavilion and benches at a new bike trail system in Brickyard Bayou Park which is an area being revitalized since it was ravaged by flooding in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. (2019)
  • Hattiesburg: Hattiesburg Landmark Preservation, Inc. (no website)
    This project will make culturally enriching improvements to Duncan Lake Park in Downtown Hattiesburg by painting a mural on the recreation building, restoring seating and providing free arts programming.  (2021)
  • Jackson: City of Jackson
    The City of Jackson will use Open Streets design practices to engage residents of the downtown community by activating new public spaces for people of all ages to interact with each other. Designing a parklet with a large mural backdrop and ground mural for safe crossing will enhance public safety by improving pedestrian accessibility. (2019)
  • Jackson: City of Jackson
    Grant money will be used to install pedestrian-oriented infrastructure, such as seating, bike storage, planters and more to make the area safer and better connect a three block area in the downtown. (2018)
  • Jackson: Mississippi Faith Based Coalition and Community Renewal 
    Overgrown vacant lots in a neighborhood will be turned into community gardens, and walking parks featuring benches and public art and residents will also be provided with paint and pressure washing services to restore the beauty of their older homes. (2020)
  • Jackson: Jackson Heart Foundation
    Challenge funds will be used to design, develop and implement an accessible wayfinding system for Jackson’s new multiuse trail corridor. (2021)
  • Starkville: Keep Starkville Beautiful
    This beautification project will make improvements and repairs to a busy transportation corridor through middle Starkville, enhancing pedestrian safety and overall experience along this travel route. (2019)

  • Columbia: PedNet Coalition
    Traffic calming demonstrations will address many of the infrastructure gaps that undermine the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users. A lending library of street safety supplies will be created for use during future "pop-up" projects. (2021) 
  • East St. Louis: Citizens for Modern Transit 
    Grant funds will be used to transform a transit station into an active space that promotes bus and light-rail use, supports creative play and celebrates the history and culture of East St. Louis. (2021)
  • Kansas City: Blue Hills Neighborhood Association
    Four commercial grade dusk-to-dawn solar lights will illuminate an ADA-compliant path in a pocket park to enhance safety, walkability and accessibility for community residents. (2020)
  • Kansas City: Marlborough Community Coalition
    A two-mile sidewalk will be enhanced with new bike racks and benches to meet community needs during COVID-19. The project also includes activities to engage residents with free programs that will provide cleaning/personal items and fresh food. (2020)
  • Kansas City: BetterBlockKC
    As part of the city's broader Complete Streets efforts, this grant will fund the installation of an enhanced crosswalk, parking, protected bike lanes and floating bus stops to promote safety and more pedestrian activity along Oak Street. (2018)
  • Kansas City: Midtown KC Now
    This project will completely refresh and overhaul Major Murray Davis Park by working with residents to identify and complete park improvements. (2021)
  • Raymore: City of Raymore
    Through this grant, a new paved and stamped crosswalk will be added on Municipal Circle to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists, and increase connectivity between nearby civic buildings. (2018)
  • Raytown: Raytown Chamber of Commerce Building Foundation, Inc.
    This project will provide amenities to encourage residents of all ages to use the Rock Island Trail by developing interactive areas for residents to rest, engage in bicycle maintenance, hydrate, and procure useful, relevant information about the community. (2019)
  • St. Louis: STL Village
    A garden will be restored to serve as a gathering place and provide residents with opportunities to volunteer by repairing and painting garden beds, adding new trees and plants, a bike rack, Artscape and pergola with benches. (2020)
  • St. Louis: Trailnet
    Grant funds will be used to alter a closed portion of Laclede Avenue to install a "parklet" with public seating, placemaking, and planters. These improvements will shorten the crossing distance for pedestrians, offer a safe resting place for cyclists, and create a new, inviting public space for customers and visitors. (2019)
  • Warrensburg: Warrensburg Main Street 
    A downtown alley will be activated and improved by volunteers who will install lighting, new seating, flowers and planters, public art and enhanced safety to become a vibrant public space. (2020)

  • Anaconda: Anaconda-Deer Lodge County
    This project will allow the purchase of ADA-compliant accessible picnic tables with attached benches enhancing the dining experience of senior residents, enriching their event experience through socialization. (2019)
  • Bozeman: Human Resource Development Council of District IX 
    New and existing public transportation routes will be showcased for the community through a pop-up project which will install temporary doors placed at various bus stops in the city to enable residents to visualize new/adjusted transit routes. (2020)
  • Bozeman: Western Transportation Institute
    A traffic calming project — including improvements to pedestrian crossings, curb extensions and traffic circles — will offer an opportunity for continued engagement with neighborhood groups to optimize designs that make their streets friendlier for all. (2019)
  • Bozeman: Western Transportation Institute and City of Bozeman 
    A mobile tool kit for pop-up projects was created to showcase how temporary demonstrations can help improve streets for travel by foot, bicycle, bus, wheelchair and other means. [WWL] (2017)
  • Browning: Blackfeet Eagle Shield Center
    This grant will provide for fencing, trees, flowers and canopy swings in order to create an outdoor space that can facilitate story-telling and socializing on Blackfeet Native American tribal land. (2018)
  • Cascade: Town of Cascade
    An ADA-compliant picnic and walled sitting area tables, flower planters and a flag pole will be created for all generations and abilities to enjoy. (2020)
  • Deer Lodge: Powell County Parks 
    Grant funds were used to connect the commercial district that includes the Deer Lodge Medical Center with parks and residential neighborhoods. (2017)

  • Great Falls: YWCA Great Falls
    Challenge funds will support educational opportunities and resources for businesses, civic groups and nonprofits dedicated to social equity and inclusion. (2021)
  • Helena: Bike Walk Montana
    This grant will fund a transportable demonstration kit to educate people about bicycle lanes, parklets, roundabouts, crosswalks and other transportation safety initiatives. (2018)
  • Helena: The Myrna Loy
    A community-driven project will enliven an underserved neighborhood with artistic benches, lighting, planter boxes, bicycle racks and public art. (2021)
  • Missoula: City of Missoula-Missoula Transportation Planning
    This project will help create an accessible public gathering space with parklets, seating, art, bike parking and curb extensions along with temporary safety installations at busy intersections. (2020)
  • Missoula: Missoula County 
    The funding was used to show how pedestrian-oriented infrastructure improves public safety, creates a sense of place and provides opportunities for people to gather and interact. (2017)
  • Missoula: Missoula Parks & Recreation
    Grant funds will be used to improve public health in the city by supporting the Rx Trails Program with new signage, mile markers, benches and maps. (2018)
  • Missoula: Montana State Parks Foundation
    By adding a new ADA-compliant covering for the entrance to a cave maintained by the state park system, this project will expand guided recreation to people with physical disabilities who have traditionally been left out of caving, spelunking, and speleology activities. (2019)
  • Roundup: Roundup Community Partners
    Volunteers will install benches and tables along Main Street and at a new welcome plaza. (2021)
  • Three Forks: Headwaters Trail System
    A new loop trail with connections to existing infrastructure will be constructed to provide a walkable and bicycle-friendly way for people to enjoy the outdoors. (2020)

More AARP Community Challenge Grantees by State

More About the AARP Community Challenge

Updated July 2021

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