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AARP New Jersey Announces Grant Opportunity for Quick-Action Community Improvement Projects
AARP
Building great communities takes time – but small, tangible improvements can spark lasting change. That’s the idea behind the AARP Community Challenge, a grant program launched in 2017 to support quick-action projects that enhance livability nationwide.
Now in its tenth year, the program is accepting applications through March 4, 2026, at aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.
The AARP Community Challenge is designed to:
- Accelerate local ideas
- Encourage innovation
- Overcome policy barriers
- Attract additional funding and support
It’s open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations, government entities, and other organizations on a case-by-case basis. All projects must be completed by December 15, 2026.
2026 Grant Opportunities
AARP is offering three distinct funding tracks to help communities become more livable for people of all ages – especially those 50 and older.
Ø Flagship Grants
Support projects that improve Public Places; Transportation; Housing; Digital Connections; and Disaster Resilience. Awards range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000.
Ø Capacity-Building Microgrants
$2,500 grants paired with expert support, webinars, and cohort learning. Focus areas include Walk Audits, Bike Audits, HomeFit® Guide Modifications, and Disaster Preparedness Training.
Ø Demonstration Grants
Designed to replicate promising local efforts. Topics include Pedestrian Safety (funding support from Toyota Motor North America), High-Speed Internet (funding support from Microsoft), and Housing Design Competitions. Awards typically range from $10,000-$20,000, and will not exceed $25,000.
“We are thrilled to open the AARP Community Challenge grant program once again and encourage all eligible organizations to apply,” said Chris Widelo, AARP New Jersey State Director. “Past grantees have made tangible improvements that spark long-term change in communities across New Jersey.”
Since 2017, AARP has funded 2,100 projects nationwide, including 47 in New Jersey. One of the projects funded in 2025 was for South Orange, Walk Bike Ride & Meadowland Park Conservancy. Walk Bike Ride South Orange, Meadowland Park Conservancy, and South Orange Village will engage volunteers to paint artistic crosswalks, add green paint to bike lanes, and install delineators on Mead Street. This will improve safety for older adults and all visitors to the park and community center.
About the AARP Community Challenge
The grant program is part of AARP’s Livable Communities initiative, which helps neighborhoods, towns, cities, and counties become great places to live for people of all ages. We believe communities should offer:
- Safe, walkable streets
- Affordable and accessible housing
- Reliable transportation options
- Access to services
- Opportunities for civic and social engagement
Apply Today
To learn more, explore past grantees, and submit your application, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.
Deadline: March 4, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT
Project Completion: December 15, 2026
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