The Policy & Research Group To Evaluate and Provide Technical Assistance for AARP Livable Communities Project

April 2009 – AARP has selected The Policy & Research Group to conduct an evaluation for a two-year grant-funded “livable communities” project through AARP’s Louisiana State Office. The project, which emphasizes the development of an elder-friendly community, is based in the Hollygrove neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Evaluation for the project will include administration of a door-to-door household survey to determine the needs of Hollygrove residents, as well as focus groups, in-depth interviews, and the development of long-term outcome measurement indicators for the project. Surveys will be administered by AmeriCorps volunteers working under the supervision of Trinity Christian Community. Throughout the project, PRG will provide technical assistance and support to AARP, the steering committee, and four project teams (transportation, public safety, economic development, and health and caregiving). With this assessment, AARP and PRG will seek to determine the types of neighborhood characteristics and services Hollygrove residents require so they may continue to live in their community.