AARP Investing $178,627 in Michigan Communities Through Expanded Nationwide Grant Program

Here in Michigan, AARP is thrilled to support 18 projects that are helping to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders work to create more livable communities, these grants provide essential support, especially in areas where small, flexible investments can lead to big change.

The 2026 program includes three grant types:

• Flagship Grants
• Capacity-Building Microgrants
• Demonstration Grants

 

2026 grantees in Michigan include:

Ortonville Downtown Development Authority | $24,500 – Add free public Wi-Fi and age-friendly digital access along Mill Street, and workshops will help older adults connect to health care and community life online.

Center Detroit Christian Community Development Corporation | $15,000 – Home safety upgrades will be completed for 30 households with residents with disabilities, helping them remain independent longer.

Home Repair Services | $15,000 – Urgent repairs in mobile homes for older adults, helping residents avoid unsafe conditions and remain in stable, affordable housing.

City of Big Rapids

• $2,500 – Bike audits will study intersections and routes, guiding recommendations that improve bike access to services.
• $2,500 – Walk audits will be conducted with community partner organizations, exploring solutions to pedestrian issues.

Michigan State University | $13,357 – An intergenerational program will pair trained volunteers with older adults to provide regular, personalized support using everyday digital tools.

The Grand Rapids Business and Professional Women’s Club | $2,500 – Community leaders will be trained to deliver ongoing disaster preparedness education, and adults age 50 and older will receive planning tools and supplies.

North End Woodward Community Coalition | $2,500 – Walk and bike safety audits will assess crossings and traffic conditions along the Woodward corridor.

ICCF Community Homes | $3,760 – Adding raised beds and a shaded structure to make gardening easier, improve access to fresh food and create more opportunities for residents to gather outdoors.

St. Joseph’s Helpers | $2,500 – Permanent safety upgrades will be installed in the homes of adults age 50 plus to reduce fall risks, improve accessibility and allow for aging in place.

Genesis Harbor of Opportunities Promoting Excellence | $22,500 – A community-led ADU design process will produce a practical model plan guide, supporting older residents seeking flexible housing choices.

Building Assets to Strengthen Society Inc. | $15,000 – New community green spaces will be created in Highland Park, such as flower gardens, rain gardens and other features that reduce stormwater runoff and enhance neighborhood environments.

City of Auburn Hills

• $12,010 – Reflective address signs will be distributed and installed on homes to improve visibility for emergency responders and deliveries.
• $2,500 – Classes will teach residents how to prepare emergency plans, shelter safely and evacuate during fires.

Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network | $15,000 – Accessible pathways and benches will be added to an urban farm to support safe access to the space for rest, cooling and community use.

Vanguard Community Development Corporation | $15,000 – Accessibility improvements will be completed to better serve older residents, making it easier for people with mobility needs to enter the building and take part in activities.

United Methodist Community House | $10,000 – An outdoor fitness court will be built to expand recreation options on the community campus.

Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision | $2,500 – Walk audits will be conducted with community partner organizations, exploring solutions to pedestrian issues.

 

The AARP Community Challenge is part of AARP’s broader Livable Communities initiative, which supports neighborhoods, towns, cities, and counties in becoming great places for all residents. A livable community is one where people of all ages can thrive, with:

• Safe, walkable streets
• Affordable and accessible housing and transportation
• Access to essential services
• Opportunities for people of all ages to engage in community life

To learn more about the AARP Community Challenge, here in Michigan and nationwide, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge. You can also explore the AARP Livable Communities Map, an interactive tool featuring AARP Community Challenge grantees and members of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.