AARP IL Community Challenge Grant Program

Each year, AARP works in partnership with local leaders, organizations, and dedicated residents to help make that vision a reality. As part of that effort, AARP is excited to announce the largest investment of grant dollars to date through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. More than $3.8 million in quick-action grants are being distributed to 343 projects across all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In 2024, AARP will bolster its investment in digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, and addressing disparities. With additional funding support provided by Toyota Motor North America, the program is also increasing its investment in pedestrian safety projects that will improve streets and sidewalks, create vibrant pedestrian infrastructure, engage community members and much more.

AARP IL is incredibly proud to have eight (8) projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.

Here in Illinois, these exciting projects were funded:

• Adams County Health Department: A new app will keep residents updated on health and emergencies, with outreach to help older adults use it. 
• Black Cornerstones: Walk audits with older volunteers will pinpoint needed improvements for sidewalks and crosswalks, followed by community discussions. 
• City of Jerseyville: Bike audits will find spots for new bike lanes, connecting the north and south sides of town with grocery stores, involving older adults. 
• Community A-to-Z: 26 themed little free libraries, pantries, and galleries will be set up to boost access to books, food, and art. 
• Community Health and Emergency Services Inc.: Walk audits will locate spots for new benches, providing resting areas for community activities. 
• Connect Lake County: Low-income older adults will get affordable internet, a free laptop or tablet, and digital literacy training. 
• Maywood Public Library District: A new bike repair station and air pump will be installed for free public use, supporting commuters and students. 
• Northwest Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: Older adults will help audit a multi-use path to improve safety and accessibility for everyone. 

The Community Challenge grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide work on livable communities, which supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and counties across the country to become great places for all residents. We believe that communities should provide safe, walkable streets; affordable and accessible housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community life.

To learn more about the work being funded by the AARP Community Challenge both here in Illinois as well as across the nation, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.

You can also view the AARP Livable Communities Map – a free, interactive tool with information on the more than 1,700 AARP Community Challenge grantees and more than 800 members in the Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.