WV Projects Receive AARP Community Challenge Grants

AARP West Virginia has announced two state winners for the AARP Community Challenge, aiming to create change and improve quality of life at the community-level. Nationally, 89 recipients of AARP Community Challenge grants received $780,000 to support projects that make communities livable for people of all ages.

Each project was partially or fully funded through the AARP Community Challenge grant and is set to be completed by November 1, 2017.

“Great communities require careful planning and time,” said AARP West Virginia State President Rich Stonestreet. “These quick action projects will give community leaders the motivation and momentum to create greater change.”

West Virginia community projects receiving 2017 AARP Community Challenge Grant Awards include:

Kanawha and Putnam County

Faith In Action of the Greater Kanawha Valley  |  Volunteerism

Grant funds will provide support for the volunteer “Honey Do Crew” home maintenance assistance program, which addresses basic household maintenance issues for vulnerable adults and low-income homeowners confronted with physical and financial limitations. Grant monies will be used to purchase materials and supplies for the program, as well as purchase safety equipment for use by volunteers.

Summers County

City of Hinton Historic Landmarks Commission | Walkability

Grant funds will assist with establishment of a walking tour of the Hinton Historic District, including purchase and installation of markers and signage, published guides and development of a multimedia companion tour on Clio, an award-winning website and mobile application developed at Marshall University that connects users with the history and culture that surround them.

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 www.aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.

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AARP WV Media Contact: Tom Hunter, 304.340.4605,  tphunter@aarp.org