ADRIAN — AARP Michigan has awarded $73,000 in Community Challenge grants to support six projects that improve livability and accessibility in Michigan communities. The funding is part of AARP’s largest-ever national grant cycle, which is investing more than $4 million into nearly 400 projects across the country.
The Community Challenge grant is designed to deliver quick, visible improvements, particularly for residents age 50 and older. Ramon Harris, Associate State Director of Community Outreach and Engagement for AARP Michigan, said the grants focus on enhancing public spaces, housing, transportation, and digital access. Since the program launched in 2017, AARP has funded more than 1,000 projects nationwide.
In Michigan, grant-funded projects include safer crosswalks in Dearborn, new benches in Holland, upgrades in Marlette, expanded digital access in Detroit, and home safety checks in Macomb County. This year’s funding also marks AARP’s largest investment in rural areas, with nearly half of all awarded grants supporting rural communities. Corporate partners include Toyota, which is helping fund safer streets and sidewalks, and Microsoft, which is supporting expanded broadband access.
AARP reports that one in three Michigan residents is age 50 or older, representing more than 3 million people.
AARP will continue to fund similar community initiatives nationwide as part of its effort to help people age in place and remain engaged in their neighborhoods.