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AARP AARP States Vermont Livable Communities

AARP Vermont Offers $15,000 Sponsorship for Community Revitalization Projects

Better block image
Tim Fitzwater

AARP Vermont is collaborating with Team Better Block to implement a Community Demonstration Project in one Vermont community in 2016. The $15,000 initiative is an approach to revitalization that begins with temporarily transforming a single block into a vibrant destination that illustrates the potential for new business, safer streets and improved livability. Typically, cities have used their Better Blocks to set up farmers’ markets, beer gardens, bookstores and fruit stands. They’ve built swings and climbing areas, set up trampolines and presented school plays, local dance troupes and open-mike musicians. They often lead to more permanent neighborhood improvements.

“We are hoping to illustrate how simple modifications can powerfully alter the economic, social, and ecological value of a community or neighborhood by gathering designers and community volunteers together to create a weekend intervention,” said Kelly Stoddard-Poor or AARP Vermont. Built with community talent and resources over a weekend, the result is a vision for an authentic place and the momentum needed to make it happen permanently.

Applications (see below) are now being accepted from municipalities, town and city planners, chambers of commerce, Rotary Clubs, or any non-profit or grassroots community group with ideas for a project in their town or neighborhood. The application deadline is Friday, April 22, 2016.   Community matching funds are not required but a strong commitment from local officials, partners and stakeholders to participate in the demonstration project.  The description and application are linked below or can be obtained by contacting Kelly Stoddard-Poor at kstoddardpoor@aarp.org. An informational webinar was held on April 6, 2016 and the related Webinar and PowerPoint links are below.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization with more than 130,000 members in Vermont and 40 million members nationally. With a focus on advocacy and public education, AARP Vermont voices the concerns of older Vermonters and works to improve the quality of life for all residents. Through a wide array of special benefits, services, and information resources, we help our members make important choices, reach their goals and dreams, and make the most of life after 50.

Better Block Demo RFP

Better Block project application

Webinar Presentation - April 6, 2016

better block PPT 4-16

 

 

 

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