AARP South Carolina Announces Grant Opportunity for Quick-Action Community Improvement Projects

Applications accepted through March 4, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT

Building great communities takes time – but small, tangible improvements can spark lasting change. That’s the idea behind the AARP Community Challenge, a grant program launched in 2017 to support quick-action projects that enhance livability nationwide.

Now in its tenth year, the program is accepting applications through March 4, 2026, at aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.

The AARP Community Challenge is designed to:

· Accelerate local ideas
· Encourage innovation
· Overcome policy barriers
· Attract additional funding and support

It’s open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations, government entities, and other organizations on a case-by-case basis. All projects must be completed by December 15, 2026.

AARP is offering three distinct funding tracks to help communities become more livable for people of all ages – especially those 50 and older.

Flagship Grants

Support projects that improve Public Places; Transportation; Housing; Digital Connections; and Disaster Resilience. Awards range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000.

Capacity-Building Microgrants

$2,500 grants paired with expert support, webinars, and cohort learning. Focus areas include Walk Audits, Bike Audits, HomeFit® Guide Modifications, and Disaster Preparedness Training.

Demonstration Grants

Designed to replicate promising local efforts. Topics include Pedestrian Safety (funding support from Toyota Motor North America), High-Speed Internet (funding support from Microsoft), and Housing Design Competitions. Awards typically range from $10,000-$20,000, and will not exceed $25,000.


“We are thrilled to open the AARP Community Challenge grant program once again and encourage all eligible organizations to apply,” said Charmaine Fuller-Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina. “Past grantees have made tangible improvements that spark long-term change in communities across South Carolina.”

Since 2017, AARP has funded 2,100 projects nationwide, including 33 in South Carolina. Learn more about the 2025 grantees - click here!

About the AARP Community Challenge

The grant program is part of AARP’s Livable Communities initiative, which helps neighborhoods, towns, cities, and counties become great places to live for people of all ages. We believe communities should offer:

· Safe, walkable streets
· Affordable and accessible housing
· Reliable transportation options
· Access to services
· Opportunities for civic and social engagement

Apply Today

To learn more, explore past grantees, and submit your application, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.

Deadline: March 4, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT

Project Completion: December 15, 2026