AARP Awards $45,000 in Grants to Enhance Livability in Nebraska Communities

AARP today announced three Nebraska organizations—Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA), Partners for Livable Omaha, and Project Houseworks—will receive 2025 Community Challenge grant funding. 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.

AARP Nebraska is committed to working with communities across the state to help make them more livable for people of all ages,” said Todd Stubbendieck, State Director for AARP Nebraska. “These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that make everyday life better, especially for Nebraskans 50 and older.”

Three Nebraska organizations have each been awarded $15,000 under AARP’s ‘Flagship Grant – Housing’ category, supporting local efforts to enhance livability and strengthen neighborhoods across the state.

• Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA): This project will create zoning and design standards for modular housing in rural Nebraska, providing affordable homeownership opportunities for families and older adults. The initiative aims to enhance neighborhood experiences and support community stability.

"We’re incredibly honored to be selected for this grant alongside such impactful partners. This funding is more than just financial support—it’s a meaningful opportunity for NIFA to further our mission of expanding affordable homeownership across rural Nebraska for families and older adults. We’re deeply grateful for the chance to advance thoughtful, community-centered planning that creates lasting impact and strengthens communities across the state."
— Shannon R. Harner, Executive Director | Nebraska Investment Finance Authority

• Partners for Livable Omaha: The OurStory housing system will introduce small, aging-ready homes for people age 50+ in Nebraska. The project includes two design variations, Corby House and Benson House, and seeks funding to support an architectural internship program and public education efforts.

"AARP is empowering Nebraskans to focus on the housing needs of older adults during a national housing crisis. Everyone wins when designers, developers and builders find new ways to keep seniors in their communities as they age. The future of housing needs to consider aging in place, rapid construction, and seamless integration into any existing neighborhoods. AARP's support allows us to bring this work directly to households across the state of Nebraska."
— Jessica Scheuerman, Executive Director | Partners for Livable Omaha

• Project Houseworks: This project provides no-cost home repairs and safety modifications for low-income older adults in Nebraska’s Douglas and Sarpy Counties. Upgrades like walk-in showers and HVAC repairs support independence, reduce falls, and enhance home safety, improving health outcomes and housing stability.

"We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from AARP. Their support means the world to us and the older adults we serve. With this partnership, we will continue to help older adults remain safely and comfortably in the homes they love—because aging in place should always be an option, not a luxury. Thank you for believing in our mission and standing alongside us in this work."
— Kenley Sturdivant-Wilson, Director of Development and Communications| Project Houseworks

The grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for people of all ages, with an emphasis on people ages 50 and older. Since 2017, AARP Nebraska has awarded 34 grants and $436,809 through the program to nonprofit organizations and government entities across the state.

“AARP Community Challenge projects may be quick to launch, but their impact is long-lasting,” said Nancy 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.