AARP Commits $83,836 to Strengthen Nearly 10 Communities Across Delaware

AARP today announced 9 organizations throughout Delaware will receive 2026 Community Challenge grants. Marking the program’s 10th anniversary, the grants are part of an $8.3 million commitment by AARP, doubling last year’s total, to fund 750 quick-action projects nationwide aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults. The funds will support improvements to public spaces, transportation, housing, digital connectivity, disaster preparedness, and other local priorities that help improve social connections and strengthen neighborhoods and towns of all sizes.

“Communities across Delaware are eager for solutions that boost mobility, connection, and quality of life,” said Lucretia Young, AARP Delaware State Director. “Thanks to Community Challenge grants, we’re empowering residents to implement impactful improvements that make a sizeable difference.”

Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded thousands of dollars through grants in Delaware to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across the state. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

More Ways to Benefit

View All

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

Previous Next

1. Related Benefit 1
2. Related Benefit 2
3. Related Benefit 3
4. Related Benefit 4
5. Related Benefit 5

Projects across Delaware reflect growing demand for practical, local solutions that help residents stay connected, safe and independent, including:

• Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park ($12,460): An ADA accessible water-filling station will be installed near the beach and recreation areas in a state park. Ready access to drinking water will help visitors stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
• Food Bank of Delaware ($15,000): An outdoor sound system will be installed at a public farm used for events and daily activities. Clear audio will improve communication and create a calmer, more inclusive environment for visitors.
• Latin American Community Center ($15,000): Flashing pedestrian signals and speed bumps will be installed at a busy intersection that is near housing and other services. Slower traffic and better visibility will make street crossings safer for older adults.
• Radio Rehoboth ($4,750): Emergency broadcast systems will be upgraded to keep local radio alerts operating during outages. Stronger connections will help older residents receive timely warnings during coastal storms.
• City of Newark ($15,000): Accessible concrete sidewalks will connect parking areas to park pavilions at three city parks. These paths will replace uneven grass routes and allow safer access to shared gathering spaces.
• NCC Government ($11,875): Tablet devices and free technology classes will be added at a busy Senior Center. Increased access and training will help older adults complete tasks and stay connected online.
• Friends of White Clay Creek State Park ($4,751): Four accessible benches with backs will replace worn seating near a popular bandstand area. Improved seating will allow more visitors to rest comfortably during park events.
• West Side Senior Walk Audit ($2,500): Walk audits and meetings will focus on streets near housing for older adults and other gathering spaces on Wilmington’s West Side. Resident input will help prioritize improvements that support safe walking.
• Ocean View CERT sponsored by Ocean View Police Department ($2,500): Preparedness training will teach self‑reliance skills for major emergency events. Participants will learn how to assist neighbors when first responders are limited.