Leeza’s Care Connection is one of 12 organizations throughout South Carolina who will receive 2026 Community Challenge grants from AARP.
Marking the program’s 10th anniversary, the grants are part of an $8.3 million commitment by AARP, doubling last year’s total, to fund 750 quick-action projects nationwide aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults. The funds will support improvements to public spaces, transportation, housing, digital connectivity, disaster preparedness, and other local priorities that help improve social connections and strengthen neighborhoods and towns of all sizes.
The Leeza’s Care Connection project is a community garden featuring lighting, shaded seating and raised beds. It will support caregivers and adults age 50 and older. The space will promote low‑impact physical activity, stress reduction and social connection.
“Communities across South Carolina are eager for solutions that boost mobility, connection, and quality of life,” said Charmaine Fuller-Cooper, State Director “Thanks to Community Challenge grants, we’re empowering residents to implement impactful improvements that make a sizeable difference.”
Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded $543,000 through 46 grants in South Carolina 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.
“America is aging, and most older adults want to stay in the communities they know and love. There are a lot of things that localities can do to support residents of all ages,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP, Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer. “AARP Community Challenge grants help transform local ideas into real improvements— from safer sidewalks and improved transportation options to public spaces that bring neighbors together and enhance community connections. As we celebrate the program’s 10th year, we’re proud to double our investment so even more communities can become great places to live for people at all stages of life.”
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.
