Staff report

AARP Ohio invites local eligible organizations and governments across the country to apply for the 2023 AARP Community Challenge grant program, now through March 15.

Now in its seventh year, the program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for all residents, especially those age 50 and older.

In 2023, the AARP Community Challenge is accepting applications across three different grant opportunities, two of which are new this year. All projects must be consistent with AARP’s mission to serve the needs of people 50 and older along with other eligibility criteria.

AARP will prioritize proposals that are inclusive, address disparities and directly engage volunteers age 50 and older.

New this year, the program will provide capacity-building microgrants paired with additional resources, such as one-on-one coaching, webinars, cohort learning opportunities and more for improving walkability and starting or expanding a community garden.

Also new this year, the Community Challenge will offer demonstration grants. A portion will be focused on transportation improvements and another portion will focus on promoting greater awareness of the benefits of accessory dwelling units as a housing solution.

AARP also will offer grants under a flagship opportunity to support projects that improve public places; transportation; housing; diversity, equity and inclusion; digital connections; community health and economic empowerment; and new this year community resilience; and civic engagement.

The Community Challenge is open to eligible nonprofit organizations and government entities. Other types of organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to tens of thousands for larger projects.

The application deadline is 5 p.m. March 15. All projects must be completed by Nov. 30. To submit an application and view past grantees, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.

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