Challenge Met: Local Groups Win Funds for Community Improvements

AARP’s Community Challenge grant program doled out $3.4 million this year across the nation to fund 260 quick-action projects to improve the lives of people of all ages.

Three local groups got AARP grants totaling nearly $50,000:

• The nonprofit Manna Inc. helped to expand home ownership among low- and moderate- income people.

• Carpe Diem Arts, working with Koiner Farm in Silver Spring, Maryland, and nonprofit housing developer Mi Casa Inc., staged a fall harvest festival, and installed murals, lighting, planters and seating outside the Genesis apartment building on Georgia Avenue Northwest.

• Vida Senior Centers, a nonprofit service provider for older residents, reintroduced the Hispanic tradition of tertulias, informal social gatherings where the community talks about the arts, current affairs and civic life.

“They make immediate improvements in their communities to jump-start long-term change, especially for District residents 50 and over,” Louis Davis Jr., AARP D.C. state director, says of the groups.

Stay apprised at aarp.org/dc.