We've Been Selected as a 2026 AARP Community Challenge Grantee!

The Meridian Senior Center is thrilled to announce that we have been selected to receive a 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant. This year, only 750 grantees were chosen from 5,100 applications from across all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

With this quick-action grant, we will expand digital connectivity and technology access for older adults by providing six laptops for public use, offering digital literacy classes and technology workshops, and delivering hands-on support that helps older adults confidently access telehealth services, online banking, benefits resources, email, internet safety tools, and other essential online services. This project will advance our efforts to make Meridian a place where people of all ages can thrive. 

“We are incredibly proud that AARP selected the Meridian Senior Center for this investment to help make Meridian more livable for residents of all ages,” stated Lisa Hansen, Executive Director. “AARP is a national leader in supporting communities to become more livable, and we are honored they recognize the value and impact this project will bring to our area.” 

This project was made possible thanks to a generous grant from AARP, with funding support provided by Microsoft. 

About the AARP Community Challenge 

The AARP Community Challenge grant program supports projects that improve public places, housing, transportation, digital connectivity, disaster resilience, and more. In 2026, Toyota Motor North America is funding pedestrian safety projects that aim to enhance streets and sidewalks nationwide. Microsoft is supporting digital connections projects aimed at expanding access to and adoption of high-speed internet (broadband). 

These grants are part of AARP’s broader Livable Communities initiative, which helps neighborhoods, towns, cities, and counties across the country become great places for people of all ages. AARP believes communities should offer: 

• Safe, walkable streets • Affordable and accessible housing and transportation options • Access to essential services • Opportunities for residents to engage and participate fully in community life 

To explore all 750 projects funded this year—or to view an interactive map of current and past Community Challenge projects—visit AARP.org/CommunityChallenge. Learn more about AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities work at AARP.org/Livable.