AARP Massachusetts is pleased to announce two winners of the AARP Community Challenge, a grant program designed to fund projects that spark change and improve the quality of life at the local community level.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham and Wakefield received funding for the creation of an intergenerational community garden and education program. The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), with the Town of Natick, also received funding to develop Senior Friendly Trails. The MAPC will promote changes to address the specific mobility, recreational and logistical needs of older adults in using the off-road trails in Natick. Each project was partially or fully funded through the AARP Community Challenge grant and is set to be completed by November 1, 2017.
Mike Festa, AARP Massachusetts State Director, praised the quality of projects proposed for the AARP Community Challenge. “AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative aims to make our communities great places to live for everyone. The winning Community Challenge projects will make long-lasting, positive and impactful change for all members of the communities of Stoneham, Wakefield and Natick.”
“Great communities require careful planning and time,” said AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond. “These quick action projects will give community leaders the motivation and momentum to create greater change.”
All of the winning projects in this challenge will deliver on one or all of the following:
- Improve social connections through the built environment benefiting people of all ages and abilities in the community.
- Expand opportunities for all residents, such as job, volunteer, and educational/training opportunities.
- Drive inclusive community engagement and interaction across a diverse population.
For a complete list of the winners and projects, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.