AARP Washington Opens Applications for Quick-Action Community Improvement Grants

Building great communities takes time, but tangible improvements can spark long-term change. That’s why AARP launched the Community Challenge grant program, funding projects that build momentum to improve livability nationwide. We’re excited to announce that the program is back for its ninth year and is now accepting applications online through March 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT. 

The AARP Community Challenge focuses on tangible change, community engagement, and a quick-action timeline, helping selected grantees fast-track ideas and replicate promising practices. Previous projects have demonstrated the ability to attract additional funds or support from public and private funders, encourage innovation, overcome local policy barriers, and receive greater awareness and engagement. 

Since 2017, the program has funded more than 1,700 projects nationwide, including 29 in Washington State. From shared garden beds and accessible transit options to revitalizing neighborhood parks and revamping community buildings for ADA compliance, there are many ways to improve your community. 

“We are thrilled to reopen the AARP Community Challenge grant program and strongly encourage all eligible organizations to apply,” said Amanda Frame, AARP Washington Outreach Director. “Past grantees have achieved significant improvements that inspire lasting change in communities throughout Washington.” 

Grants are open to 501©(3), 501©(4), and 501©(6) nonprofits and government entities, and can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand for larger projects. In 2025, the AARP Community Challenge program will accept applications across three different grant opportunities designed to help communities become more livable for all residents, especially those aged 50 and over.

• Flagship Grants

This is AARP’s traditional flagship Community Challenge grant program, where grants have ranged from several hundred dollars for smaller, short-term activities to tens of thousands of dollars for larger projects. Since 2017, AARP has funded projects with an average grant amount of $10,000-12,000, and 92% of grants are $20,000 or less. Grants will not exceed $25,000. These grants will support projects that improve public places; transportation; housing; digital connections; and community resilience.

• Capacity-Building Microgrants

These $2,500 grants are combined with additional resources, such as webinars, cohort learning opportunities, up to two hours of one-on-one coaching from leading national nonprofit organizations and AARP publications. This grant opportunity will accept applications for projects that support Disaster Preparedness Training, Walk Audits, Bike Audits and HomeFit® Guide Modifications.

• Demonstration Grants

This opportunity funds demonstration projects that encourage replication of promising local efforts. Grants tend to fall between $10,000 and $20,000 and will not exceed $25,000. This grant opportunity will accept applications for projects that enhance pedestrian safety with funding support from Toyota Motor North America; expand high-speed internet (broadband) access and adoption with funding support from Microsoft; reconnect communities divided by infrastructure; and implement housing design competitions. 

The AARP Community Challenge grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports neighborhoods, towns, cities, and counties across the country in becoming great places to live for people of all ages. We believe that communities should provide residents of all ages, especially those 50 and older, with safe, walkable streets; affordable and accessible housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities to participate in community life. 

The application deadline for the 2025 grant cycle is March 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT. All projects must be completed by December 15, 2025.

Visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge to apply and learn more about the work being funded by the AARP Community Challenge in Washington State and across the nation.