Livable Communities

We know that it takes time to build great communities. But we also believe that tangible improvements can spark long-term change. AARP launched the Community Challenge in 2017 to fund projects that build momentum to improve livability nationwide. We are excited to announce the program is back in 2023 for its seventh year and is currently accepting applications online through March 15, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. CT.

Mardi Knudson, 68, was baffled when she drove into a downtown St. Cloud parking garage recently and couldn’t find a way to pay with cash.

Created in 2019, the Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota plans to submit its final recommendations this year. AARP is also continuing to support communities and work with state legislators to set up a permanent age-friendly council that will enable more change across the state.

The state is poised to enter the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, after Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order creating the Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota.

"Quick action" innovative projects aimed to inspire change and create better places to live for residents of all ages

Black History Month presents a unique opportunity to celebrate the achievements, culture and history of the African American and Black community in February. AARP encourages everyone to celebrate Black History Month by participating in activities that teach us about the resilience and power of the black community and help us gain a better appreciation of the culture.

Project Food Forest has been named a recipient of a 2020 AARP Community Challenge grant, one of four grantees selected in Minnesota. With this grant, Project Food Forest will be making improvements to the Prairie Ally Outdoor Center by adding three commissioned sculptural trellises and two circular picnic tables.

AARP MN is proud to honor Hennepin County Commissioner, Angela Conley, during Black History Month. Her dedication and work on issues of livability, housing, equity and inclusion, community services, and civic engagement shows her commitment to a better quality of life in the South Minneapolis community. Conley has spoken at Sabathani and Nokomis AARP Healthy Aging events to join our elders and speak on her work on their behalf.

Check out the new AARP sponsored outdoor fitness park organized by FitLot at the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center.

An Age-Friendly Community includes safe, walkable streets; housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community life. In November, more than 500 people attended our virtual conference focused on Building Great Places for People of All Ages. Learn more about Age-Friendly Communities in action and what tools and resources are available to create change where you live. If you were unable to participate you can still access the recordings using these links: