Navigating a caregiving journey? Ask AARP, our AI-powered assistant, can help you find answers, resources, and guidance.

Content starts here

12 New Mexico Organizations Receive AARP Community Challenge Grants

AARP

Published June 24, 2026

AARP today announced that 12 organizations throughout New Mexico will receive 13 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. The projects aim to make communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults, by supporting improvements to public spaces, transportation, housing, digital connectivity, disaster preparedness, and other local priorities that improve social connections and strengthen neighborhoods and towns of all sizes.

“It’s very important to most people to be able to age in their homes and communities while remaining as independent as possible,” said Shanna Lapsley, AARP New Mexico Associate State Director for Community Outreach. “These projects show that small changes can have a ripple effect toward that goal.”

“Improving transportation, such as smoothing out walking paths or making biking safe, learning technology and avoiding scams, staying healthy or being prepared for a disaster, all add to our quality of life and create services that make staying at home easier,” Lapsley said.

More Ways to Benefit

View All

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

Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded 44 New Mexico organizations a total of $520,664. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Projects across New Mexico reflect growing demand for practical, local solutions that help residents stay connected, safe and independent.

Community Challenge Grant Recipients Include:

Village in the Village, Corrales – The organization will distribute fireproof document storage bags to older adults and other vulnerable residents. The project will help them protect important records and evacuate more safely during disasters.

Dona Ana Village Association, Las Cruces – An ADA accessible walking loop with compacted surfaces and shaded rest areas will be built in a popular park. Benches with backs and armrests will help older residents walk safely and comfortably even in the heat and with mobility challenges.

El Raton Media Works, Raton – The project will offer weekly, in-person tech help at the Raton Senior Center to build digital skills and reduce scam risk for older adults. The program will also create a short video series featuring older adults’ experiences with technology, pairing hand-on tech support with locally relevant content.

Curry County, Clovis – Concrete sidewalks will be added at the county fairgrounds to replace uneven gravel paths. These improvements will make it easier for wheelchair and walker users to reach food courts and other key areas.

Reunity Resources, Santa Fe – The organization will improve paths, seating and accessibility features at a community farm next to an expanded public trail. These upgrades will help older adults visit, rest and participate in farm programs safely.

Deming/Luna County Senior Center, Deming – A shaded, accessible outdoor garden featuring raised beds, seating, irrigation and connected walkways will be created at the local Senior Center. This space will support light physical activity, gardening and social interaction for older adults.

Voice for Change New Mexico, Deming – The program will add shaded, ADA accessible benches along frequently used walking areas. These resting spots will help older adults walk safely in extreme heat and encourage social connection.

Revitalize San Pedro Partnership, Albuquerque – Secure bicycle racks will be installed along a busy main street. The racks enable older adults to bike safely, reduce transportation costs and reach nearby businesses while aging in place.

City of Albuquerque Foundation, Albuquerque – A missing-middle housing design competition will feature public charrettes and small-infill design concepts. The effort will build understanding of age-friendly housing in neighborhoods.

Carrizozo Works Inc., Carrizozo – Four outdoor fitness stations will be installed at a local park for users with mobility needs. Free equipment will support safe exercise and offer new activity options for residents and visiting travelers.

Central New Mexico Ingenuity, Albuquerque – A mobile computer lab will visit three locations to host hands-on digital learning events. Adults age 50-plus will practice using devices and online tools with guided support to build confidence and access services.

Rebuilding Together Sandoval County, Bernalillo – The disability modification program will complete essential home-safety upgrades for 10 homeowners. These changes will support safer mobility and independence.

Revitalizing San Pedro Partnership, Albuquerque -- A couple bike audits will review safety and comfort along the San Pedro corridor. Older riders will help identify quick fixes and priority projects.

“America is aging, and most older adults want to stay in the communities they know and love. There are a lot of things that localities can do to support residents of all ages,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP, Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer. “AARP Community Challenge grants help transform local ideas into real improvements— from safer sidewalks and improved transportation options to public spaces that bring neighbors together and enhance community connections. As we celebrate the program’s 10th year, we’re proud to double our investment so even more communities can become great places to live for people at all stages of life.”

View the full list of grantees and their projects at aarp.org/communitychallenge. Learn more about AARP’s work to support livable communities at aarp.org/livable.

AARP Membership

Join AARP for only $15 per year with automatic renewal. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of benefits, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine.

Join