AARP Community Challenge Grant Program Now Accepting 2020 Applications

AARP is now accepting applications for the 2020 AARP Community Challenge grant program to fund “quick-action” projects that spark change across the country. Now in its fourth year, the program is part of AARP’s nationwide work on Livable Communities. Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand, or tens of thousands for larger projects.

“Spotlighting and supporting meaningful and impactful projects can spark longer-term progress and build momentum to improve livability for all,” said Tia Murphy, AARP Connecticut state president. “We hope the Community Challenge program inspires a sharing of the best practices and creative ideas happening in communities, towns and neighborhoods across the country.”

The AARP Community Challenge is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits and government entities. Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. AARP will prioritize projects with permanent or temporary solutions that aim to achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

• Increase civic engagement with innovative and tangible projects. New in 2020, this category intends to bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of community inclusion and diversity.
• 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 the availability of a range of housing that increases accessible and affordable housing options.
• Demonstrate the tangible value of “Smart Cities” with programs that engage residents in accessing, understanding and using data, and participating in decision-making to increase quality of life for all.
• Other innovative projects to improve the community.

Since 2017, AARP has awarded 376 grants through the AARP Community Challenge to nonprofit organizations and government entities representing 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, including six in Connecticut. Visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge to see some of the 2019 winners in action.

AARP Connecticut works in collaboration with communities across the state, bringing people together and providing resources and expertise to help make Connecticut’s counties, towns and cities great places to live for people of all ages.

In 2018, AARP Connecticut launched the “Livable Communities Grant Program” dedicated to fund the projects of Connecticut nonprofit organizations and municipalities that aim to help neighborhoods, towns and cities become great places for people of all ages. The local expansion of the AARP Community Challenge initiative has provided funding for 11 projects in the first two years.

The application deadline is Wednesday, April 1, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. ET, and all projects must be completed by Monday, Nov. 9, 2020. To submit an application or learn more, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.