AARP Commits Thousands of Dollars to Strengthen Communities Across Connecticut

$55,000 in grants aims to help residents of all ages, especially older adults, improve how they live, move, and stay connected in their neighborhoods through innovative local projects

AARP today announced five organizations throughout Connecticut will receive 2025 Community Challenge grants. The grants are part of AARP’s $4.2 million commitment to fund 383 quick-action projects aimed at making communities across the nation more livable for people of all ages, with a focus on the needs of older adults. The funds will support efforts to improve public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and other key areas.

Now in its ninth year, the Challenge has awarded more than $327,000 through 32 grants to nonprofit organizations and local government entities in Connecticut since 2017. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“AARP Connecticut is proud to work with local leaders, advocates and policymakers across the state to help make communities more livable for people of all ages,” said Nora Duncan, AARP Connecticut State Director. “These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that make everyday life better, especially for Connecticut’s older residents.”

Here in Connecticut, projects funded include:

• New Haven: Arts Council of Greater New Haven, Inc.
  The Mill River Underpass Park Project will reconnect three neighborhoods divided by I-91 by creating an intergenerational, multi-use space. It will prioritize nature, accessibility, and communal areas, helping older residents safely cross between neighborhoods and rebuild social connections.
• Cromwell: Cromwell Creative District (CCD)
  This project will renovate two parks in Cromwell, Valour Green and Pierson Park Rose Garden, to improve accessibility and enjoyment for all residents, especially veterans and those age 50 or over. Upgrades include new benches, accessible walkways, and low-maintenance plantings.
• Farmington: Farmington Community Services
  This project will enhance accessibility in the senior center and community parks by adding features like push button door openers, accessible kiosks, and specialized equipment. It aims to create inclusive spaces for older adults, promoting active participation and community integration.
• Litchfield: Litchfield Community Greenway
  The Friends of the Litchfield Community Greenway will install benches, bollards, and informational kiosks along a new trail connecting Litchfield and Bantam. These ADA-compliant features will enhance safety and accessibility for older adults and all visitors.
• Simsbury: Town of Simsbury
  Simsbury will host an Aging-in-Place Expo at the public library to help residents learn how to make their homes safe and livable. The expo will feature local building community members, health district officials, and a mobile smart home. Additional education seminars and a professional development seminar featuring universal design will be held.

In addition, community organizations and governments in Connecticut will be able to apply for AARP Connecticut’s 2025 Livable Communities Grant Program, a local extension of the national initiative. Now in its eighth year, the AARP Connecticut program has funded 45 quick-action projects to help neighborhoods, towns and cities across the state be great places to live for people of all ages. Applications for a grant up to $5,000 will be accepted from July 1 until August 15. People can email CTLivable@aarp.org with questions or for more information.

“AARP Community Challenge projects may be quick to launch, but their impact is long-lasting,” said Nancy A. LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer. “We’re proud to support communities nationwide to advance solutions that make neighborhoods and towns of all sizes better places to live where everyone can thrive. And this year, we’re particularly proud to invest in projects benefitting often overlooked rural areas.”

View the full list of grantees and their projects at aarp.org/communitychallenge. Learn more about AARP’s work to support livable communities at aarp.org/livable.