AARP is inviting local nonprofit organizations and governments to apply for the 2025 AARP Community Challenge grant program, designed to fund quick-action projects to help communities become more livable.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. March 5. The funding will be used to improve housing, public spaces, transportation, digital connections and more.
Now in its ninth year, the program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which aims to improve communities for those 50 and older.
“AARP Indiana is committed to helping communities across the state become great places to live for people of all ages,” said Sarah Waddle, AARP Indiana state director. “The Community Challenge is a critical part of how we do that. By working with local residents, advocates and policymakers on the quick-action projects, we’re able to help make lasting improvements.”
This year, AARP is accepting applications across three grant opportunities. All projects must meet the mission of serving people 50 years and older. The grant opportunities are:
- Capacity-building microgrants, which are paired with additional resources, such as one-on-one coaching from national nonprofit organizations, webinars, cohort learning opportunities and more for improving walkability, bikeability; implementing safe, accessible home modifications and disaster preparedness training.
- Demonstration grants, which fund projects that encourage replication of exemplary local efforts. This year’s focus is on improving pedestrian safety with funding support from Toyota Motor North America; expanding high-speed internet access and adoption with funding support from Microsoft; reconnecting communities divided by infrastructure; and implementing housing choice design competitions.
- Flagship grants, which support projects that improve public places, transportation, housing, digital connections and community resilience.
Since 2017, AARP has invested $20.1 million towards 1,700 projects, including 31 in Indiana. The challenge is open to all nonprofit organizations and government entities. Others will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
To submit an application, visit AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.
This reporting is made possible by a grant from the Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative, empowering our community with essential health insights. https://iaaqli.org/
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Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
