COMMENTARY

By Christina Clem

When the Toledo Community Library noticed a leaky roof that threatened the community-funded and operated facility, it turned to AARP to help patch things up. The library was a recipient of a Community Challenge grant in 2024 to repair the roof — one of four 2024 grants awarded in Washington.

At AARP, we know building great communities takes time, but tangible improvements can spark long-term change, as well as keep cherished community resources around for all to use. That’s why AARP launched the Community Challenge grant program to fund projects that foster communities for all ages. The program is back for its ninth year and accepting applications. 

The program 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 over 1,700 projects nationwide, including 29 in Washington. 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.

Grants are open to 501©(3), 501©(4), and 501©(6) non-profits and government entities and can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand dollars for larger projects. In 2025, the program will accept applications for 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 Community Challenge grant program. Grants will not exceed $25,000. They 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,, up to two hours of one-on-one coaching from leading national non-profit organizations, and AARP publications. This 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 won’t exceed $25,000. Applications can be 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 application deadline for the 2025 grant cycle is March 5. All projects must be completed by Dec. 15. Visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge to apply and learn more.

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 communities should provide residents of all ages, especially 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. 

Christina Clem is an associate state director of communications for AARP Washington.