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Nine South Dakota Communities Receive AARP Grants to Improve Everyday Life

AARP Invests $125,800 in Local Projects to Help South Dakotans Stay Connected and Independent

AARP

Published June 24, 2026

AARP

From safer parks to more accessible transit, communities across South Dakota are getting a boost this year.

AARP is investing $125,800 in nine projects across the state, helping residents—especially older adults—live more comfortably and stay connected in the places they call home. These quick-action projects focus on practical improvements that make a real difference in everyday life.

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This year marks the 10th anniversary of the AARP Community Challenge, a nationwide grant program that supports local ideas to make communities more livable. Across the country, AARP is committing $8.3 million to fund 750 projects—double last year’s investment.

Why this matters for South Dakota

In neighborhoods big and small, South Dakotans are looking for ways to stay active, engaged and independent as they age. These grants support solutions that improve public spaces, transportation, housing, digital access and more—helping people of all ages thrive.

“Communities across South Dakota are eager for solutions that boost mobility, connection and quality of life,” said AARP South Dakota State Director Erik Gaikowski. “Thanks to AARP Community Challenge grants, we’re empowering residents to create improvements that truly make a difference in their communities.”

Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded more than $515,000 to 50 organizations across South Dakota, supporting projects that strengthen local communities and spark lasting change.

Local projects making a difference

Here’s how this year’s funded projects will improve communities across South Dakota:

Aberdeen | Hardy Rosarians of South Dakota
Add permanent benches near the rose gardens at a local arboretum—giving visitors a safe, comfortable place to rest, enjoy nature and connect with others.
Estelline | Estelline Economic Development
Enhance Gazebo Park with accessible walking paths, safer crossings, new seating, improved lighting and updated landscaping.
Spearfish | Trail Access + Activation Initiative
Expand trail accessibility near Spearfish Canyon with benches, rest areas, kiosks and clear signage, along with free “Learn to Ride” clinics.
Sioux Falls | Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc.
Pilot a one-day winter market with heated tents, seating and clear pathways to help people gather comfortably outdoors—even in colder months.
Mobridge | Housing & Redevelopment Commission
Support safer aging at home by installing upgrades like grab bars, ramps and guardrails for older adults and people with mobility challenges.
Gregory | Economic Development Group
Transform an empty lot into a welcoming public park with shade, seating, games and space for seasonal community activities.
Brookings | Regional Impact Fund
Rebuild downtown restrooms to create fully accessible, clearly marked facilities for residents and visitors.
Viborg | City of Viborg
Improve a popular park by upgrading restroom accessibility, adding benches and enhancing lighting around the bandstand.
Sioux Falls | Sioux Area Metro
Upgrade a frequently used city bus with digital route displays, improved lighting and more comfortable seating to make transit easier and safer.

A decade of impact

As communities across the country adapt to a growing older population, these types of local projects play an important role in helping people stay connected to the places they love.

“Most older adults want to stay in the communities they know and love,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer. “These grants help turn local ideas into real improvements—from safer sidewalks to public spaces that bring neighbors together.”

AARP Community Challenge grants are funded in all 50 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands—supporting communities of all sizes.

Learn more

Want to explore more projects or learn how AARP is helping communities thrive?

Visit https://www.aarp.org/communitychallenge to see the full list of grantees, or learn more about AARP’s livable communities work at aarp.org/livable.

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