Little Rock, Arkansas – The City of Little Rock is excited to announce the launch of its new Love Your Block program, an initiative designed to empower residents to lead revitalization projects in their neighborhoods. The program offers mini-grants of up to $2,000 to support community-driven efforts that make a lasting, positive impact.
Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. shared his enthusiasm for the program, emphasizing its potential to transform Little Rock’s neighborhoods. “When residents take the lead in shaping their neighborhoods, we create a stronger, more connected Little Rock,” Mayor Scott said. “This opens the door to innovation and partnerships that promote significant, positive impacts across the City.”
The Love Your Block program targets economically vulnerable areas, providing residents the resources to improve their neighborhoods. The grants can fund a variety of projects, such as converting vacant lots into community gardens, cleaning up public spaces, repairing playground equipment, and much more. By allowing residents to take ownership of their projects, the program fosters a sense of pride and belonging within local communities.
In addition to improving physical spaces, the Love Your Block program has a broader impact on the social fabric of the city. According to a 2021 study by the Urban Institute, such initiatives help build trust between residents and local government. The program encourages civic participation, strengthening the bonds between neighbors and fostering a cooperative spirit that lasts long after the projects are completed.
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The Love Your Block initiative is supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies and builds upon the legacy of Cities of Service, a national effort launched by former New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg in 2009. Over the years, this initiative has successfully engaged residents in cities across the U.S., with more than 50 cities participating in public problem-solving and revitalization efforts. Little Rock is now joining that distinguished list.
Residents of Little Rock are encouraged to submit their ideas for neighborhood improvement. Whether it’s revitalizing a local park, cleaning up a vacant lot, or organizing community-building events, Love Your Block offers a powerful platform for residents to make a tangible difference in their communities. The goal is not only to enhance the physical environment but to strengthen social cohesion by bringing people together to work toward a shared vision.
The program allows for a wide range of projects, enabling communities to focus on the areas that matter most to them. This flexibility gives neighborhoods the opportunity to address their unique needs, whether that involves beautifying public spaces, increasing safety, or creating opportunities for social engagement.
Love Your Block is more than just a funding program—it’s an opportunity for residents to become active participants in the growth and development of their neighborhoods. With a focus on collaboration, the program brings together local leaders, organizations, and city officials to create lasting change that enhances the quality of life for all.
Applications for the Love Your Block program are now being accepted, and the deadline to apply is April 11. Interested residents can visit the City of Little Rock’s official Love Your Block website to learn more about the program and to submit their applications.
With this initiative, Little Rock is taking significant steps toward a brighter future, where residents play a central role in shaping the spaces they live in. The Love Your Block program is more than just a grant—it’s a call to action for those who are eager to make a difference and create a better tomorrow for their community.
For more information and to apply for funding, visit the City of Little Rock’s Love Your Block website. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting opportunity to transform Little Rock into a stronger, more connected community.
