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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. 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The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? 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"/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? 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'' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ' :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }'include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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About The Challenge
AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness.
Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities
AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.
The program is funding projects across three different grant opportunities, including flagship grants, capacity-building microgrants, and demonstration grants. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:
· Andover: Andover Elder Services- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.
· Belchertown: Belchertown Senior Center- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.
· Blackstone: Blackstone Parks and Recreation- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.
· Boston: Meaningful Occasions- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.
· Cambridge: Green Cambridge- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.
· Clarksburg: The Town of Clarksburg- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.
· Clinton: Bigelow Free Public Library- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.
· Lowell: Bike Connector Inc. Lowell- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.
· Merrimac: Merrimac Senior Center- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.
· Monterey: The Town Of Monterey- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.
· New Bedford: Friends of Buttonwood Park- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.
· Pepperell: Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.
· Taunton: Downtown Taunton Foundation- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.
· Watertown: Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.
· Wayland: Wayland Council on Aging- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.
· Worcester: Worcester Housing Authority- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.
This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the AARP Massachusetts page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? 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'' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? 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'' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? 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'' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 07/16/24 by <b>Adrian Ramos</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>About The Challenge</u></b></p><p>AARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge grant program. In 2024, we are distributing over $3.8 million in quick-action grants to 343 projects across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year’s focus includes digital connectivity, community resilience, rural communities, addressing disparities, and pedestrian safety projects with additional support from Toyota Motor North America. From the 3.8 million, $126,389 has been distributed across sixteen different communities in the Bay State to fund projects that help these communities increase their overall livability and age-friendliness. <br><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b><u>Sixteen Projects across Sixteen Bay State Communities</u></b></p><p>AARP Massachusetts is incredibly proud to have sixteen projects granted right here in our state. Our goal is to support their efforts to create great places for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, this becomes even more critical.<br><br>The program is funding projects across <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2024/2024-challenge.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three different grant opportunities</a></span></span>, including <b><i>flagship grants</i></b>, <b><i>capacity-building microgrants</i></b><i>,</i> and <b><i>demonstration grants</i></b>. Here in Massachusetts, these exciting projects were funded:<br><br>· <b><u>Andover:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://andoverma.gov/227/Elder-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Andover Elder Services</a></span></span>- An intergenerational garden to bring together seasoned and aspiring gardeners in a new collaboration between the Senior Center, Youth Services (AYS), garden clubs and the Andover Pollinator Pathway group. The project seeks to reimagine and expand the existing, on-site garden.<br><br>· <b><u>Belchertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.belchertown.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Belchertown Senior Center</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a new and paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks and remain a part of their community.<br><br>· <b><u>Blackstone:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.townofblackstone.org/496/Parks-Recreation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Blackstone Parks and Recreation</a></span></span>- Working with the Senior Center, Blackstone-Millville Garden Club, local businesses, students, and more, Blackstone Parks and Recreation will build 12 raised beds for older residents to grow their own produce and flowers. The beds would be wheelchair and walker accessible as well as at an appropriate height to allow older residents of all ages and physical ability to do the gardening without bending.<br><br>· <b><u>Boston:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://meaningfuloccasions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meaningful Occasions</a></span></span>- This project will provide technology training for older adults living in affordable housing, with a focus on home tech solutions that allow individuals to safely age in place.<br><br>· <b><u>Cambridge:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.greencambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Green Cambridge</a></span></span>- Green Cambridge will conduct walk audits and share the results with community members, local businessowners and municipal agencies to inform streetscape improvements.<br><br>· <b><u>Clarksburg:</u> </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.clarksburgma.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town of Clarksburg</a></span></span>- The town of Clarksburg will erect a digital sign in front of town hall to alert residents of upcoming events and emergencies.<br><br>· <b><u>Clinton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://bigelowlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bigelow Free Public Library</a></span></span>- The purchase of a GRIT all-terrain freedom chair to accommodate people who would like to be able to access nature.<br><br>· <b><u>Lowell:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.bikeconnector.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bike Connector Inc. Lowell</a></span></span>- Providing older adults of Lowell with free, refurbished bikes, bike helmets, locks and lights.<br><br>· <b><u>Merrimac:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://townofmerrimac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Merrimac Senior Center</a></span></span>- Older adult volunteers of the senior center will conduct a bike audit focused on areas they frequent and assess the condition of sidewalks and paths. Results of this bike audit will inform efforts to implement an e-bike program.<br><br>· <b><u>Monterey:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.montereyma.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Town Of Monterey</a></span></span>- Purchasing various technology devices to provide internet training for 50+ year old residents with the intention of enabling internet access, promoting personal connectivity and improving digital literacy for Monterey residents 50+.<br><br>· <b><u>New Bedford:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://buttonwoodpark.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Friends of Buttonwood Park</a></span></span>- Bench installation along a path in Buttonwood Park to improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.<br><br>· <b><u>Pepperell</u>: </b><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.pachoutreach.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pepperell Aid Community Home (PACH) Outreach</a></span></span>- An ADA door system attached to the PACH building, which acts as a food pantry for the towns of Pepperell and Dunstable.<br><br>· <b><u>Taunton:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://downtowntaunton.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Downtown Taunton Foundation</a></span></span>- The establishment and enhancement of a walking trail in Downtown Taunton to encourage recreation, fitness, and economic stimulation.<br><br>· <b><u>Watertown:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.watertown-ma.gov/284/Senior-Services" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Watertown Department of Senior Services and Council on Aging</a></span></span>- An eviction prevention project that offers financial assistance to older residents to put toward rent, home modifications, and cleaning services.<br><br>· <b><u>Wayland:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.wayland.ma.us/council-aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wayland Council on Aging</a></span></span>- The installation of grab bars and motion sensing nightlights in several homes and home safety trainings for older adults to help residents age in place and live in their communities safely and for longer.<br><br>· <b><u>Worcester:</u></b> <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://worcesterha.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Worcester Housing Authority</a></span></span>- This project involves the addition of desktop computers to community rooms with free, high speed internet connectivity. Also, Digital literacy courses for older residents and those with disabilities will be provided as part of this project.<br><br><br> <br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Massachusetts. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank">AARP Massachusetts</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dc222-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c0b2dd040-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Massachusetts Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Massachusetts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MA@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MA@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/massachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Massachusetts</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-massachusetts/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmassachusetts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="About The ChallengeAARP is partnering with local leaders, organizations, and residents to support community improvements through the AARP Community Challenge" name="description"/> <meta content="2024, AARP, Community, Challenge, Grantees, in, Massachusetts" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/massachusetts/2024communitychallengema" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-2024-aarp-community-challenge-grantees-in-massachusetts-ma-2024-07-16.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. The AARP Community Challenge"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/66ce118/2147483647/strip/true/crop/600x386+0+7/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fc1%2Fe3%2F7bb6a6eb4eacb034993c0b211a3d%2F2024.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantees in Massachusetts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Sixteen communities across the Bay State are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages. 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--primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/springfield-ma/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Springfield, MA</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/springfield-ma/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/springfield-ma/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/springfield-ma/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/springfield-ma/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/springfield-ma/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/springfield-ma/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/springfield-ma/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/springfield-ma/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/springfield-ma/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/springfield-ma/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/springfield-ma/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/springfield-ma/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/springfield-ma/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/springfield-ma/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118