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We're Here to Help Make RI Communities More Livable

John Martin,

Updated June 24, 2026

AARP Rhode Island

Updated June 24, 2026

AARP Commits $143,000 to Strengthen Communities Across Rhode Island

Grants aim to help residents of all ages, especially older adults, improve how they live, move, and stay connected in their neighborhoods through innovative local projects

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PROVIDENCE, RI, JUNE 24, 2026 – AARP today announced nine organizations throughout Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island are eager for solutions that boost mobility, connection, and quality of life,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor. “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 $479,127 through 38 grants in Rhode Island 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.

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

Community Libraries of Rhode Island - The outdoor library grounds will be completed with custom benches and small outdoor bookcases. The space will support reading, gathering and neighborhood activities in an accessible setting.
DaVinci Center for Community Progress - An outdoor space will be upgraded with accessible seating, raised garden beds and better lighting. The changes will allow safe outdoor meals, gardening and gatherings.
West Broadway Neighborhood Association - Residents will help design and install a street mural and traffic‑calming features at a busy intersection. The project will slow traffic, improve visibility and make crossings safer for older adults and other pedestrians in the neighborhood.
Bike Newport - A temporary, traffic-separated bike lane with a neighborhood link will be installed along a heavily traveled road to test safer riding conditions. The pilot will help riders bike to nearby destinations and guide future street design decisions.
Edward King House Senior Center - The project will host pop‑up events to help older residents enroll in the city’s emergency registry, learn the basics of preparedness and receive starter emergency kits. The project will help people prepare for storms and power outages.
RIPTA - Easy‑to‑read transit guides for older adults will be updated and printed in English and Spanish. The guides will explain how to ride buses, use fare cards and access reduced fares, helping people travel with confidence and remain independent.
The Greater North End Community - This project will improve walking safety in busy corridors en route to downtown Westerly. It will add high‑visibility crosswalk markings on busy streets and offer guided walking tours to help older adults safely reach shops, parks and community services.
Providence Street Coalition - Large planters will be placed near crosswalks on a busy street to slow traffic and protect pedestrians. These safety improvements will reduce crash risk and improve safety for older adults.
State of Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing - A statewide ADU design competition will produce pre-approved housing plans. The options will reduce costs and support increased housing choices for older adults.

“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,” LeaMond added. “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.