NEWS

Age-Friendly Funding Alert: The 2022 AARP Community Challenge Grant

Jan 26, 2022

The AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to fund quick-action projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages.

This year, applications will be accepted for projects to improve public spaces; housing; transportation; civic engagement; diversity, equity and inclusion; support efforts to build engagement for programs under new federal laws; and other innovative ideas that support people age 50 or older.

Important Dates in 2022

  • January 25: Application window opens
  • March 22: Applications due by 5 p.m. (ET)
  • Mid-May: All applicants will be notified by email of their status
  • June 29: Public announcement of the selected grantees — and work on the projects begin!
  • November 30: All funded projects must be completed
  • December 14: Deadline for after-action reports

Eligibility

The program is open to the following types of programs:

  • 501(C)(3), 501(C)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits
  • Government entities
  • Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis

Project Categories

AARP will prioritize projects that support residents age 50 or over, are inclusive, address disparities, directly engage volunteers and aim to achieve one or more of the following outcome areas:

  • Create vibrant Public Places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities
  • Deliver a range of Transportation and Mobility options that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements
  • Support a range of Housing options that increases the availability of accessible and affordable choices
  • Ensure a focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion while improving the Built and Social Environment of a community
  • Support communities’ efforts to Build Engagement and Leverage Funding available under new federal programs through laws including the American Rescue Plan Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and more
  • Increase Civic Engagement with innovative and tangible projects that bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of inclusion
  • Other community improvements, including Health ServicesCommunity Development, and Coronavirus Pandemic Recovery

More information is available on the full grant website here. The application portal is available here.