The US non-profit, AARP, has opened applications for the 2020 Community Challenge grant programme to fund “quick-action” projects with either permanent or temporary solutions across the country.

AARP is dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. Now in its fourth year, the grant programme is part of AARP’s nationwide work on liveable communities. Community organisations and local governments are invited to apply for grants that can range from several hundred dollars for small-, short-term activities to several thousand- or 10s of thousands of dollars for larger projects.

Immediate improvements

“The Community Challenge helps local leaders and organisations make immediate improvements that benefit residents of all ages. With direct support from AARP, communities are able to make quick changes and inspire long-term progress,” said Nancy LeaMond, executive vice president and chief advocacy and engagement officer, AARP.

Grants helped organisations jump-start progress, raise awareness, and attract additional support and funding. The AARP Community Challenge is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) non-profits and government entities. Other types of organisations are considered on a case-by-case basis.

“With direct support from AARP, communities are able to make quick changes and inspire long-term progress.”

AARP said it will prioritise projects that aim to achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

• Demonstrate the tangible value of smart cities with programmes that engage residents in accessing, understanding, and using data and participating in decision-making to increase quality of life for all
• Increase civic engagement with innovative and tangible projects. This category is new this year and is intended to bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of community inclusion and diversity
• Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities
• Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements
• Support the availability of a range of housing that increases accessible and affordable housing options
• Other innovative projects to improve the community.

Since 2017, AARP has awarded 376 grants through the challenge to non-profit organisations and government entities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

The application deadline is 11.59pm Eastern Time, 1 April 2020. All projects must be completed by 9 November 2020. To submit an application and to find out more about past winners, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.

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