WASHINGTON, DC—AARP announces 88 winners for its first-ever AARP Community Challenge, aiming to create change and improve quality of life in communities across the nation for people of all ages. The winning projects range from low-cost, short-term actions such as the creation of temporary park spaces and murals to more sizable efforts such as the development of intergenerational playgrounds. AARP received almost 1,200 applications for Community Challenge funds, resulting in a highly competitive selection process.  All projects are set to be completed by November 1, 2017.

"Great communities require careful planning and time," said AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond. "These quick action projects will give community leaders the motivation and momentum to create greater change."

Three additional projects will receive additional support through the AARP and Team Better Block partnership including support with project design, city department negotiations, and organizing the community around project objectives. These three projects are located in Ft. Worth, TX; Buffalo, NY; and Fort Wayne, IN.

Each project will deliver on one or all of the following:

• Improve social connections through the built environment benefiting people of all ages and abilities in the community.
• Expand opportunities for all residents, such as job, volunteer, and educational/training opportunities.
• Drive inclusive community engagement and interaction across a diverse population.

For a complete list of the winners and projects, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name.  As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the world's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.