Since 2009, the Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention (ArCOP), through its Growing Healthy Communities initiative, has helped communities like the University District in Little Rock reduce obesity and improve the health of their residents.
In 2010 the University District was selected as one of ArCOP's Growing Healthy Communities. With partners in the University District, the neighborhood and its Development Corporation started the Garden to Grill Health Awareness class, a farmers’ market and a community garden. It also installed new sidewalks and sponsored a pop-up dog park. These initiatives earned the University District ArCOP’s recognition as a Thriving Community.
ArCOP and its recognition program help communities make changes that can improve residents’ lives and show their success and sustainability as communities. You can learn more about Growing Healthy Communities and the University District at UDDCLittleRock.org.