An action plan is based on the results of community surveys identifying needs within the 8 Domains of Livability that influence the health and quality of life of older adults. While there is flexibility in how a plan is created and what it will do, every action plan includes a statement about what can be achieved, target dates for goal completion, identification of participating organizations and indicators to measure progress. The action plan is an "active" rather than static document. Revisions and amendments are a sign of program improvement and progress.
Help low-income homeowners and first-time home buyers make critical repairs to their homes, or purchase homes, by partnering with community-based programs and non-profits. Build new affordable housing and provide needed upgrades to senior housing.
Stimulate conversations between residents of all ages by adding historical markers in outdoors spaces, reflecting neighborhoods' character and roots.
Create more job opportunities for older adults and people with disabilities through internet-based training and coaching to prepare for job readiness and entrepreneurship, along with internet-based programs in homeownership, health, and civic engagement.
Atlanta, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Resources about housing options, safety and services
Description: To help residents stay in their neighborhood following construction of the Atlanta Beltline bike and pedestrian trail, the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership hired resource coordinators. The coordinators work to inform longtime residents about the organization's Legacy Resident Retention Program, which provides financial assistance to cover property tax increases. The efforts ensure low- and moderate-income families aren't displaced, enabling intergenerational wealth building and allowing them to take advantage of the BeltLine.
Atlanta, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: The Atlanta Bicycle Coalition -- now called Propel Atlanta -- highlighted safety through temporary changes to a dangerous street. Through the years, Cascade Avenue has been the site of many accidents involving pedestrians. Project organizers increased the visibility of the street's crosswalks by adding splashes of color. They also deployed cones to make a wide lane narrower, demonstrating how street design can reduce driver speeds and increase pedestrian safety.
ABOUT THE AARP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE
Launched in 2017, the annual AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to local governments and nonprofits in order to fund quick-action, ready-to-implement projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages.
