A neglected downtown alleyway in Okmulgee is set for a major makeover, thanks to a newly awarded AARP Community Challenge grant. The funding will help Okmulgee Main Street transform the underutilized space into a vibrant, walkable area complete with seating, murals, greenery and accessible features – creating a welcoming and inclusive public gathering spot, especially for older adults.
The project is one of eight in Oklahoma selected to receive funding through the 2025 AARP Community Challenge grant initiative. In total, AARP is investing $97,500 across the state to improve public spaces, housing, digital access and transportation – with a strong focus on projects that benefit aging residents.
“This is such great news for senior residents of Okmulgee,” Rep. Scott Fetgatter said. “I appreciate this AARP grant giving them a beautiful place to gather and interact. This will enrich so many lives.”
The grant is part of AARP’s broader $4.2 million national commitment to fund 383 quick-action projects aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages. Now in its ninth year, the AARP Community Challenge program has awarded 37 grants in Oklahoma, totaling $494,610 to nonprofit organizations and local governments since its inception.
“AARP Oklahoma is proud to work with communities across the state to help make them more livable for people of all ages,” said Charlie Swinton, AARP Oklahoma Volunteer State President. “These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that improve everyday life, especially for older Oklahomans.”
In Okmulgee, the alley activation project spearheaded by Okmulgee Main Street aims to address both accessibility and social connection. The reimagined space will serve as a venue for community events, informal gatherings and quiet moments of reflection, helping to foster interaction among residents of all generations.
Other Oklahoma communities selected for the 2025 Community Challenge grants include:
• City of Shawnee – Supporting aging-in-place renovations in the Dunbar Heights neighborhood for older residents.
• Tulsa Route 66 Main Street – Installing accessible walking trails in Howard Park to encourage exercise and socialization.
• Meadow Gold District (Tulsa) – Enhancing pedestrian safety and walkability through improved crosswalks, signage and beautification along Route 66.
• Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma – Hosting a Tiny Home for Elders design competition to promote affordable, culturally relevant housing.
• Beverly’s Home of Second Chances (Sapulpa) – Conducting walk audits to guide sidewalk and crosswalk improvements.
• Absentee Shawnee Housing Authority – Providing bathroom safety aides for older and disabled residents.
• Sheena’s Helping Hands (Muskogee) – Performing walk audits in underserved neighborhoods to improve pedestrian access.
Nationwide, projects were funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond said the goal is to foster long-lasting change through small, quickly executed initiatives.
“AARP Community Challenge projects may be quick to launch, but their impact is long-lasting,” LeaMond said. “We’re proud to support communities nationwide to advance solutions that make neighborhoods and towns of all sizes better places to live where everyone can thrive. And this year, we’re particularly proud to invest in projects benefiting often overlooked rural areas.”
To learn more about AARP’s nationwide initiative and see the full list of grantees, visit aarp.org/communitychallenge.
