Submit your ideas for the 2019 AARP Challenge Grant

AARP has opened applications for the 2019 AARP Community Challenge grant program to fund “quick-action” projects that spark change across the country. Now in its third year, the program is part of AARP’s nationwide work on Livable Communities. Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand dollars for larger projects.

"We've seen these mini grants spark change and new solutions in communities across Oregon from Port Orford to Hood River," said AARP Oregon State Director Ruby Haughton-Pitts. "We're excited to see the creative proposals from commuity groups this year," she said.

The Community Challenge is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits and government entities. Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. AARP will prioritize projects with permanent or temporary solutions that aim to achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

• Demonstrate the tangible value of “Smart Cities.” New in 2019, this category will encourage applicants to develop and implement innovative programs that engage residents in accessing, understanding and using data to increase quality of life for all, as well as engage in decision-making about housing, transportation, economic development, placemaking, infrastructure or other community aspects.
• Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements.
• Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities.
• Support the availability of a range of housing that increases accessible and affordable housing options.
• Other community improvements. In addition to the four areas of focus, AARP wants to hear about local needs and new, innovative ideas for addressing them.

Since 2017, AARP has awarded 217 grants through the AARP Community Challenge to nonprofit organizations and government entities representing 50 states and U.S. territories. Oregon winners in 2018 included:

• Hood River: City of Hood RiverGrant funds will enable Streets Alive! Hood River to pilot an open streets program, in which streets are closed off to cars and opened to pedestrians, enabling a host of public space exercise activities such as yoga and dance classes.
• Portland: VerdeThe grant supports Verde’s Mobile Home Repair Extravaganza by funding up to eight home repairs for older adults, families with children, and residents with disabilities. The home repairs completed with this grant will address critical health, safety and livability issues impacting low-income residents.
• Prineville: Crook County on the MoveThe grant will provide for the installation of four age-friendly benches along a bicycle and pedestrian pathway

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The 2019 application deadline is 11:59 p.m. ET, April 17, 2019, and all projects must be completed by November 4, 2019. To submit an application or learn more, visit AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.