Child care access has become a major focal point in the U.S., and South Dakota is no exception. More than two dozen communities are using grant money to come up with local solutions in hopes of expanding options for families. Earlier this week, the governor s office announced more than $1 million in funding will be shared by 28 economic development groups around the state. .
The city of Lincoln scores high for "livability," both in Nebraska and the nation as a whole. In the new AARP Livability Index, Lincoln ranks number one for the state, and number 11 among large communities nationwide. Rankings were based on 61 indicators in seven categories, such as housing, transportation, health status and community engagement. .
A Minneapolis neighborhood celebrates the opening of a centralized location for community safety initiatives today. The nonprofit behind the effort also is beginning to dive into similar projects in rural Minnesota. Nonviolent Peaceforce hopes to foster more collaboration with other safety-oriented groups through its Hub for Nonviolence and Healing in North Minneapolis. .
Veterans Day happens once a year, but all year round, Kentuckians provide care for the veterans they love. According to data from AARP, they spend on average more than $11,000 a year in out-of-pocket costs related to caregiving. In a region with a high number of military families, said Gary Adkins, AARP Kentucky volunteer state president, the stresses of veteran caregiving affect entire communities. .