AARP Commits Thousands of Dollars to Strengthen Six Communities Across Minnesota

AARP today announced six organizations throughout Minnesota will receive 2025 Community Challenge grants. The grants are part of AARP’s $4.2 million commitment to fund 383 quick-action projects aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages, with a focus on the needs of older adults. The funds will support efforts to improve public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and other key areas.

Now in its ninth year, the Challenge has awarded $558,589 through 45 grants in Minnesota since 2017 to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across the state. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“AARP Minnesota is proud to work with communities across the state to help make them more livable for people of all ages,” said Cathy McLeer, AARP MN State Director. “These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that make everyday life better, especially for older Minnesotans.”

Here in Minnesota, projects funded include:

FLAGSHIP GRANTS

• Parents Inspired, $16,000. Parents Inspired will pilot an on-demand transportation program for older adults age 50 and over and disabled individuals in Hutchinson, MN. The service will prioritize medical appointments and offer non-medical rides based on driver availability, enhancing mobility and access to essential services within a 25-mile radius.
• Mahnomen County, $15,000. Mahnomen will upgrade the Senior Living Center to improve accessibility for residents aged 50 and older. The project includes a wider doorway, ramp, and automatic door opener to ensure safer, more inclusive access for those with mobility challenges.
• City of Newfolden, $15,000.  The City of Newfolden will create an outdoor gathering area at the Newfolden Community and Senior Center. The space will feature accessible seating, planting areas, and tablescapes to promote intergenerational gathering and inclusivity for all mobility needs.
• City of Sleepy Eye, $15,000. The project will create walkable access and rest areas connecting the senior center, museum, Chief Sleepy Eye Monument, Veterans Park, and local shops. It will include benches, trash receptacles, flowerpots, and a mural, enhancing accessibility and aesthetics for all visitors.

MICRO GRANTS

• North East Seniors for Better Living (St. Paul), $2,500. North East Seniors will have staff visit the homes of older adults in need to provide small-scale repairs and make safety improvements. Staff will also help older adults find community services such as rides, chore help, and in-home nursing to ensure they remain healthy and comfortable in their homes.
• Progressive Pathways (Minneapolis), $2,500. This project will conduct six sessions at various locations to prepare for summer storms and flooding. Informational magnets, checklists, and supplies will be distributed. Somali interpretation will be provided for sessions and materials.

“AARP Community Challenge projects may be quick to launch, but their impact is long-lasting,” said Nancy A. LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer. “We’re proud to support communities nationwide to advance solutions that make neighborhoods and towns of all sizes better places to live where everyone can thrive. And this year, we’re particularly proud to invest in projects benefitting often overlooked rural areas.”

View the full list of grantees and their projects at aarp.org/communitychallenge. Learn more about AARP’s work to support livable communities at aarp.org/livable.