HARRISBURG, PA — AARP Pennsylvania has announced the opening of its 2024 Community Challenge Grant Program, inviting eligible non-profit organizations and governments to apply. The program is an opportunity for local entities to secure funding for quick-action projects aimed at enhancing community livability. The deadline for applications is set for March 6 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern.
The Community Challenge grants are part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which is now in its eighth year. The program seeks to support urban, suburban, and rural areas in their efforts to become ideal living spaces for all residents, particularly those aged 50 and older.
Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania State Director, expressed the organization’s commitment to work with local residents, advocates, and policymakers to improve living conditions in Pennsylvania communities. He noted that quick-action projects funded by the Community Challenge have consistently brought about long-lasting change, especially for Pennsylvanians aged 50 and above.
The Community Challenge offers three different grant opportunities, all aligned with AARP’s mission to serve the needs of older adults. These include capacity-building microgrants, demonstration grants, and flagship grants. Each of these grants focuses on various aspects of community improvement, such as housing, transportation, digital connectivity, public places, community health, and economic empowerment.
Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer, emphasized AARP’s dedication to addressing the needs of the aging population across the country. She stated that the Community Challenge aims to spur action in cities, towns, and rural areas by funding speedy community improvements that benefit individuals of all ages and abilities.
Since its inception in 2017, the Community Challenge has invested $16.4 million in 1,370 projects nationwide, including 33 in Pennsylvania. The program has been instrumental in providing direct support to communities of all kinds, with a special emphasis on the needs of those aged 50 and above.
AARP Pennsylvania continues to collaborate with communities across the state, uniting people and providing resources and expertise to make Pennsylvania’s counties, towns, and cities great places for residents of all ages.
The Community Challenge grants range from several hundred dollars for smaller, short-term activities to tens of thousands for larger projects. All projects funded by the 2024 grants must be completed by December 15, 2024.
To submit an application and view past grantees, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.
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