AARP WV Announces 2020 Community Challenge Grant Program

Posted on 02/05/20 by Tom Hunter

66913640_10156704113568195_623271845675663360_o.jpg

AARP is now accepting applications for the 2020 Community Challenge grant program to fund “quick-action” projects that spark change in local communities. The grant program, which is now in its fourth year, is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which aims to make communities great places to live for everyone.

The Community Challenge is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits and government entities. Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand for larger projects. The program will prioritize projects that aim to achieve the following outcomes in 2020:

  • Increase civic engagement with innovative and tangible projects. This new category in 2020 encourages communities to bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of community inclusion and diversity.
  • Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities.
  • Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options in the community that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements.
  • Support the availability of a range of housing that increase accessible and affordable housing options.
  • Demonstrate the tangible value of “Smart Cities” with programs that engage residents in accessing, understanding and using data, and participating in decision-making to increase quality of life.
  • Other community improvements. In addition to the five areas of focus, AARP wants to hear about local needs and new, innovative ideas for addressing them.

Since 2017, AARP has awarded 376 grants totaling nearly $3.7 million through the Community Challenge to nonprofit organizations and government entities representing every state and U.S. territory, including West Virginia community projects in Kanawha, Lincoln, Monongalia, Preston, Putnam and Summers counties. The application deadline is Wednesday, April 1, 2020, 11:59 p.m. ET, and all projects must be completed by Monday, November 9, 2020. To submit applications, or for more information on the program, visit www.aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.

----------------------------------------------------
AARP WV Media Contact: Tom Hunter, 304.340.4605, tphunter@aarp.org

This story is provided by AARP West Virginia. Visit the AARP West Virginia page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.

Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide

Upcoming AARP Events

View All AARP Events

image of two AARP membership cards
Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal
  • Immediate access to your member benefits
  • Discounts on travel and everyday savings
  • Subscription to AARP The Magazine
  • FREE second membership
Join AARP
Already a member? Renew or Print Card

Contact AARP
in Charleston