SAWs Virginia has been selected to receive a 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant. SAWs Virginia Founder Charlie Russell says they are one of 343 organizations selected out of over 33-hundred applications nationally. He says the grant means they’ll be building multiple wheelchair ramps for deserving persons in the Rappahannock region.
“We are incredibly proud that AARP selected SAWs Virginia for this investment to make Rappahannock area more livable for residents of all ages,” Russell said. “AARP is a nationwide leader in making communities more livable and we are honored that they see the tangible value this project will bring to our area.”
SAWs volunteers build ramps-usually on a Saturday-around the area.
About the AARP Community Challenge
The AARP Community Challenge grant program funds innovative, quick-action projects in areas such as public places; housing; transportation; digital connectivity; community resilience; and more. With additional funding support provided by Toyota Motor North America, the program is also increasing its investment in pedestrian safety projects that will improve streets and sidewalks, create vibrant pedestrian infrastructure, and engage community members.
This is all part of AARP’s nationwide work on livable communities, which supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and counties across the country to become great places for all. AARP believes that communities should provide safe, walkable streets; affordable and accessible housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community life.
To learn more about the projects being funded by the AARP Community Challenge across the nation, including all 343 granted projects this year, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge. You can also view an interactive map of current and past AARP Community Challenge projects and AARP’s Livable Communities work at aarp.org/livable.
