07-02-26 Jay Haapala, Asso. State Director of Community Engagement at AARP MN, talks with Chantel Sings about AARP’s 2026 Community Challenge grants and how innovative projects across Minnesota are making communities more livable for people of all ages

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Jay Haapala joins Chantel Sings to discuss AARP Minnesota’s 2026 Community Challenge grants, which are supporting 18 projects across the state that improve quality of life and help communities become more livable for residents of all ages. He highlights initiatives ranging from technology training for older adults and innovative home-sharing programs to safer streets, improved public spaces, transportation assistance, and accessibility enhancements. Haapala explains how small investments can spark lasting community change and encourages local organizations to explore ideas that can be replicated in communities throughout Minnesota. The conversation also emphasizes AARP’s decade-long commitment to helping people live independently, stay connected, and thrive as they age.

What is KMOJCast?

Select programming from KMOJ's airwaves and community voices. Since first going “on the air” in 1976, KMOJ-89.9-FM continues its legacy as the community-oriented station located in Minneapolis, Minnesota airing a predominantly urban adult contemporary format.

“KMOJ’s Community Viewpoint” is one way the station achieves its mission of engaging, supporting and empowering Communities of Color to elevate the way of life of the people of its community and to challenge social and economic disparities, and the persistent consequences of historic racism.
The station call letters, “KMOJ” were inspired by the Swahili word “UMOJA” which means “Unity.” http://kmojfm.com/