AARP Community Challenge Takes Quick Action in Louisiana

AARP Louisiana is excited to announce FitLot as the winner of the AARP Community Challenge, aiming to create change and improve quality of life at the community-level.

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

FitLot is a New Orleans based non-profit organization dedicated to helping communities throughout the country find the resources they need to plan, build, and program publicly outdoor accessible fitness parks. The 1,700 square feet shaded safety surfaced fitness park has 16 pieces of outdoor fitness equipment for all ages and abilities to use cost-free 24/7, 365 days a year.

The grant will allow Fitlot to build an ADA accessible footbridge/walking path that would connect the fitness park to an active Rail to Trails pedestrian path called Lafitte Greenway, and will also support a 9-week fitness program for aging adults.

"FitLot is thrilled to have the support of AARP as we continue to make fitness programming and FitLot fitness parks fun and accessible to people of all ages in New Orleans and throughout the country,” said FitLot Executive Director, Adam Mejerson.

“Vibrant healthy communities offer residents opportunities to engage and socially interact with each other. Although the grant applications were competitive and innovative, FitLot's proposal to connect two public spaces by building a bridge designed for all ages and users rose to the top.  This project will not only increase the usability of both parks, but will also enhance this community treasure,” said AARP Louisiana State Director, Denise Bottcher.

“Great communities require careful planning and time,” said AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond. “These quick action projects will give community leaders the motivation and momentum to create greater change.”

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 aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.