AARP Commits Thousands of Dollars to Strengthen Idaho Communities

$76,000 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 Idaho 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 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 $400,000 through 35 grants in Idaho since 2017 to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across the state. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

 “AARP Idaho is proud to work with communities across the state to help make them more livable for people of all ages,” said Randy Simon, Director of Communications. “These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that make everyday life better, especially for older Idahoans.”

Here in Idaho, projects funded include:

City of East Hope - $15,000
The City of East Hope will build a covered pavilion in a city park, providing a safe, shaded space for community members of all ages to relax, socialize, and enjoy nature. The pavilion will help protect against harmful UV rays and support various community events and gatherings.

City of Melba - $15,000
The City of Melba will construct a 15' x 15' octagonal gazebo in Centennial Park. The ADA-accessible gazebo, with two benches and ADA parking spaces, will provide a meeting place for community events and gatherings, enhancing the park's usability and appeal.

Gem County Economic Development Foundation - $15,000
This project will widen sidewalks and install head-out angled parking in historic downtown Emmett as part of the Gem of the Payette revitalization initiative. These upgrades will enhance safety, walkability, and social interaction, particularly benefiting older adults and strengthening the local economy.

Idaho Hispanic Community Center - $15,000
The Idaho Hispanic Community Center (IH2C) will be upgrading the buildings audio and visual equipment by adding a new sound system, microphone, projector, and screen. These improvements will enhance the facility for community events, AARP meetings, and various cultural activities.

Wyatt Marshall Sr Project / Inkom Revitalization Commission $16,000
Wyatt Marshall’s senior project aims to build a pickleball court in Inkom while providing a low-impact, social, and accessible workout for people of all ages, especially those age 50 and over. The court will promote community engagement and support physical and mental well-being.

“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.