AARP Texas has announced that applications are now open for its 2025 Community Challenge grant program, an initiative designed to make communities across the state more livable for residents of all ages. Eligible nonprofit organizations and government entities are encouraged to submit proposals by March 5 at 4 p.m. Central. The program provides funding for quick-action projects aimed at creating long-term improvements in areas such as public spaces, transportation, housing, civic engagement, and diversity and inclusion.

According to Tina Tran, AARP Texas state director, the organization prioritizes helping communities become great places to live for everyone, particularly older adults. Tran highlighted the program's success in demonstrating that short-term, fast-moving projects can lead to lasting benefits that improve the quality of life for Texans.

This year’s Community Challenge includes three categories of grants. Capacity-building microgrants offer additional resources like coaching, webinars, and training to enhance walkability, bikeability, disaster preparedness, and accessible home modifications. Demonstration grants focus on replicating standout local projects, emphasizing pedestrian safety, high-speed internet access, reconnecting divided communities, and housing choice design competitions. Flagship grants aim to enhance public spaces, transportation, housing, digital connections, and overall community resilience.

Grants awarded through the program range from a few hundred dollars for small projects to tens of thousands for larger initiatives. All projects must align with AARP’s mission of addressing the needs of people aged 50 and older and be completed by December 15, 2025.

Since its inception in 2017, the Community Challenge has distributed over $20 million in funding to support 1,700 projects nationwide, including 45 in Texas. These efforts have impacted rural, suburban, and urban areas, with a strong focus on serving residents aged 50 and older. The program is a key element of AARP’s Livable Communities initiative, which promotes collaboration and innovation to make cities, towns, and neighborhoods across the country more inclusive and age-friendly.

For more information, including how to apply and details on past grantees, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.