Alexandria, VA — The Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation is proud to announce it has been selected to receive a 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant, one of only 750 projects chosen from more than 5,100 applications from across the nation.
The grant will support SFDC’s ongoing efforts to create a more vibrant and livable Richmond Highway Corridor by expanding public art installations that encourage exploration, strengthen community identity, and create welcoming public spaces for residents and visitors of all ages.
The project will be implemented in partnership with Mount Vernon at Home, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to helping older adults remain active, engaged, and independent while aging in place. SFDC will also work with Nepenthe Gallery, a local art gallery and longtime supporter of public art on the Richmond Highway Corridor, to help procure the art installations and identify the right artists for the project.
Building on SFDC’s successful Faces of 1 sculpture initiative and other placemaking projects throughout the corridor, the grant will fund additional public art that enhances everyday experiences, creates memorable destinations, and encourages residents to spend more time enjoying their community.
“Public art is much more than something beautiful to look at — it creates places where people feel connected,” said Evan Kaufman, Executive Director of the Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation. “As we continue working to strengthen the Richmond Highway Corridor, projects like this help create welcoming spaces where neighbors can gather, visitors can explore, and residents of all ages — including older adults — feel a stronger sense of belonging. We’re grateful to AARP for recognizing the power of public art to strengthen communities.”
Through its partnership with Mount Vernon at Home, SFDC will engage older residents throughout the project to help ensure the artwork reflects community stories and contributes to spaces that are inviting, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.
“Nepenthe Gallery has been an incredible sponsor, advocate, and supporter of the arts along the Richmond Highway Corridor,” Kaufman added. “Their knowledge of artists, curation, and community-centered art will be invaluable as we identify installations that are not only visually compelling, but meaningful to the people who live, work, and visit here.”
The AARP Community Challenge supports projects that make tangible improvements in communities and help jump-start long-term change. The program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports cities, towns, neighborhoods, and rural areas working to become great places to live for people of all ages.