Livable Communities

To celebrate Black History Month, AARP MN honors the work of Hallie Q. Brown Community Center for its service to others and its advocacy on behalf of the historically disenfranchised African American community in St. Paul’s Rondo Neighborhood. Founded in 1929, Hallie Q. Brown Community Center had its origins as a settlement house for African Americans denied services by other agencies, welcoming the entire population of St. Paul’s Summit-University neighborhood. It has grown and adapted with the community around it, and today offers six main program areas. AARP MN partners with Hallie Q. Brown Community Center to host events and workshops geared toward connection and local impact.

By Mary Van Beusekom

For too many people, the right type of house, in the right location and at the right price point can’t be found because it no longer exists. This mismatch – between the available housing stock and what people actually want – is partly due to shifting demographics and partly due to the growing demand for walkable urban living. Filling that gap with new housing options that offer the right size, location and price point – something often referred to as “Missing Middle Housing” - is one way to correct this mismatch and create affordable options for a broader range of people.

Communities across Minnesota are working each and every day to become more livable for residents of all ages. In support of that work, AARP is excited to be able to provide funding to organizations through the AARP Community Challenge Grants to help them jump start progress on ongoing work. These “quick action” grants are being distributed to 129 organizations, with at least one in every state, Washington D.C, and Puerto Rico, including right here in Minnesota.

St. Paul, Minneapolis and Rochester were all ranked among the top 10 most livable “medium sized” cities in the country, according to data analyzed from the newly updated AARP Livability Index. Among

AARP Minnesota offers presentations and workshops on a wide range of topics, such as fraud and scam

There are more than 150 officially designated "Age-Friendly" communities nationwide. One of them is Northfield, Minnesota. Age-friendly or livable communities have walkable streets, housing and transportation options, access to key services and opportunities for residents to participate in community activities.

By Mary Van Beusekom

Sometime this fall, let AARP Minnesota treat you to a beer and some fun. We’re partnering with local breweries for several AARP On Tap events, and we'd like you to join us. These events are great opportunities for those who want to meet and connect with other members, learn more about AARP, or simply enjoy a free brewery tour. Make sure to bring a non-perishable food donation, and we'll buy you a beer in exchange. We need your help fighting hunger in the Twin Cities, and this is a refreshing way to get involved. For more information, see the specific event and registration details below.

August 30, 2017