AARP Community Challenge Grants to Benefit Six New Mexico Communities

AARP is excited to announce that six organizations throughout New Mexico will receive 2025 Community Challenge grants. The grants are part of AARP’s commitment 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. 

The grants total $4.2 million commitment to fund 383 quick-action projects across the country. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Projects must be completed by Dec. 5, 2025. 

Since 2017, the Challenge has awarded $375,919 through 31 grants in New Mexico to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across the state.

“AARP is excited to award another round of Community Challenge Grants that will have an immediate benefit to the communities receiving them,” said Joseph Roybal Sanchez, AARP New Mexico State Director. “The projects are designed to be easily turned around in an effort to build momentum toward improving livability for residents of all ages, background and abilities.” 

“AARP New Mexico is very excited that six communities in our state will be able to take advantage of this funding to create programs that will have a lasting impact on their communities now and in the future,” Roybal Sanchez said.

Here in New Mexico, projects funded include: 

· The city of Clovis -- The city will distribute 300 free smoke detectors to older adults at events managed by the Senior Services Department. This program aims to improve emergency preparedness by providing bilingual installation instructions and informational materials on home safety. 

· Grants Mainstreet Project – The City Hall Park Revitalization Project will enhance the park with new picnic tables, benches, improved ramadas, and landscaping. These upgrades will create a welcoming space for older adults, and the community, to enjoy socializing, relaxation, and outdoor activities, promoting physical health and community engagement. 

· Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity – The Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity’s Home Preservation program provides essential home maintenance, repairs, and accessibility modifications for low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities. This project ensures they can safely age in place, enhancing safety and reducing housing insecurity. 

· Jicarilla Apache Senior Center -- the Senior Citizens Park will feature an accessible walking path, shaded seating, picnic areas, and fruit-bearing trees. This project aims to promote health, social engagement, and nutrition for older adults, creating a safe and welcoming community space.

· Pueblo of Isleta Elder Center -- The greenhouse project will provide older adults with a 12 x 32-foot, year-round gardening space near the Elder Center and horno bread ovens. It will feature raised beds for growing traditional plants, herbs, and vegetables, promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being for older adults aged 50 and older. 

· Rebuilding Together Sandoval County -- This project will provide essential modifications and repairs to enhance safety and mobility for older adults facing mobility challenges. It aims to create safe and healthy homes, allowing neighbors age 50-plus to age gracefully in place. 

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