HARRISBURG, PA — AARP has awarded its 2025 Community Challenge grants to seven organizations across Pennsylvania, providing over $70,000 to fund innovative projects aimed at improving community livability for people of all ages, particularly older adults. Part of a $4.2 million initiative supporting 383 projects nationwide, the grants will enhance public spaces, transportation, housing, digital accessibility, and more.
Since its inception, the Challenge has invested $538,329 in Pennsylvania through 46 grants. This year’s recipients reflect a commitment to delivering tangible, quick-action solutions with lasting community impact.
“AARP Pennsylvania is proud to work with communities across the state to help make them more livable for people of all ages,” said Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania State Director. “These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that make everyday life better, especially for older Pennsylvanians.”
The 2025 funded projects in Pennsylvania include:
- SACA Development Corporation (Lancaster) – $9,500 for public art and upgrades to a plaza celebrating Latino older adults’ migration stories.
- Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (Camp Hill) – $15,000 to improve outdoor recreation access for older adults and people with disabilities.
- Northampton County (Countywide) – $12,000 to provide digital device training and distribution for residents aged 50-plus.
- West Mt. Airy Neighbors (Philadelphia) – $12,164 for new pedestrian safety enhancements near senior apartments and transit stops.
- Philly Community Wireless (Philadelphia) – $20,000 to offer free Wi-Fi and bilingual digital literacy programming for older adults at Somerset Villas.
- Reading Hospital (West Reading) – $2,500 for aging-in-place home modifications for high-fall-risk patients.
- Fishtown Neighbors Association (Philadelphia) – $2,500 for a walk audit of Girard Avenue to identify and address barriers for older adults.
“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.”
These grants reinforce AARP’s dedication to fostering more inclusive, age-friendly communities across Pennsylvania and beyond, helping residents connect, thrive, and age with dignity.
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