COLUMBUS, Ohio – Austintown Township and the city of Campbell are among 24 Ohio communities receiving 2026 AARP Community Challenge grants to support projects that improve accessibility, connectivity and quality of life for residents of all ages.
In Austintown, grant funding will be used to transform an underused office at the township’s senior center into a telehealth hub. The project will provide technology, training and support to help older adults access virtual health care services.
Campbell will use its grant to organize walk audits led by older adult volunteers to identify opportunities to improve sidewalks, pedestrian crossings and overall walkability throughout the city.
The grants are part of AARP’s Community Challenge program, which supports projects that improve public spaces, housing, transportation, digital connectivity, disaster preparedness and other community priorities.
“Communities are strongest when people of all ages can participate, contribute and thrive,” said Jenny Carlson, AARP Ohio state director. “AARP Community Challenge Grants help turn local vision into visible results, creating more connected, accessible and vibrant places. As Ohio celebrates its first year in the AARP Age-Friendly Network, we’re proud to support projects that help people grow up and grow older together.”
Since the program launched in 2017, AARP has invested nearly $1 million in communities across Ohio through Community Challenge grants and other initiatives. This year’s grants coincide with the program’s 10th anniversary and Ohio’s first full year as a member of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.
Nationwide, AARP awarded Community Challenge grants to organizations in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.