FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 29, 2026
 

MEDIA CONTACTS

Andrew Johnson, andjohnson@aarp.org, 614-370-6818
Shannon Seesholtz, mayor@lancasterohio.gov, 740-687-6600

 

AARP Awards Grant to the City of Lancaster as Part of Nationwide Program to Strengthen Communities

COLUMBUS, OHIO—AARP today announced that the City of Lancaster has received a
$10,000 2026 Community Challenge grant. Marking the program’s 10th anniversary, the grant is 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 grant will help the city provide portable wheelchair ramps that can be deployed throughout the city especially the historic downtown area, improving access to businesses, services, and community amenities for people with mobility challenges. The ramps will offer flexible, short-term accessibility solutions while helping create a more welcoming and inclusive downtown experience.
 
Creating a community where everyone can participate often starts with removing barriers,” said Jenny Carlson, AARP Ohio State Director. “This project will help make downtown more accessible and welcoming for residents and visitors alike, and AARP is proud to support a project that helps more people connect with local businesses, services and community.”
 
“The AARP Community Challenge grant funds will play a vital role in making Lancaster more welcoming, accessible, and connected for everyone. By providing temporary wheelchair ramps, we’re helping older adults and residents with mobility challenges more easily access local businesses, community spaces, and events while supporting the businesses that make our city vibrant,” said Michelle McCrady, Grants Manager for the Community Development Department. “We’re grateful to AARP for investing in practical solutions that create immediate impact and help us build a more inclusive Lancaster for the future.”
AARP Ohio plans to join community partners at a future event recognizing this investment and its impact on the community. Additional details will be announced at a later date.
 
Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded $881,289 through 78 grants in Ohio 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.