Healthy Outdoor Communities is a groundbreaking initiative that promotes equitable access to nature and green space as an equalizer in the fight against health disparities in urban communities.
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This collaborative program combines the strengths of community members with the resources of local nonprofits, parks departments, healthcare providers, libraries, multi-service centers, schools, higher education institutions, faith centers, and other neighborhood organizations.
By working together, we are able to offer unique educational opportunities and outdoor activities that encourage healthier, more active lifestyles and have a lasting positive impact on wellbeing and resilience in our communities.
To be a part of HOC community meetings via Zoom, sign up to get meeting invites HERE.
Community-Based Small Projects
Funding Awardees!
These small projects will make a big difference in the lives of Acres Homes and Third Ward children and families. Find out more about the funded projects HERE.
Acres Homes Round 1 Project Awardees
Third Ward Round 1 Project Awardees
Boy Scout Troop 212
Acres Homes Round 2 Project Awardees
Third Ward Round 2 Project Awardees
Our Vision
Healthy Parks, Healthy People, Healthy Communities
We see a future where local parks and green spaces serve as community hubs and provide equitable opportunities to improve and maintain good mental and physical health. When everyone has more equitable access to health and nature, families are closer, children are happier, and life is better.
Our Mission
To empower children, youth, and families of underserved communities
to be proactive in their own health and wellbeing by utilizing
free, safe, and easily accessible neighborhood parks and green spaces.
We achieve this mission by educating children and families about their local parks and green spaces, teaching them a variety of outdoor skills and hobbies they can enjoy, and integrating additional health amplifying components such as health and nutrition education, literacy programs, and resilience building life-skills training.
Our partner schools, libraries, healthcare providers, higher education institutions, and community organizations incorporate the health-related benefits of time spent outdoors into their children, youth, and family programs that promote equitable access to green spaces and better health.
Introducing a Game Changer!
Over the next 5 years, with guidance from the Prevention Institute and the THRIVE Framework, our collaborative partners will work closely with community residents, schools, and organizations in the planning and programming phases of this incredible project.
We encourage all members of our focus communities to participate, identify pressing community needs, and assist us in creating programming that will best serve the Acres Homes and Third Ward neighborhoods.
In support of our Healthy Outdoor Communities initiative, the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health has awarded $800,000 in funding to support five years of work benefiting underserved children, youth, and families of color in Acres Homes and Third Ward as well as three Houston area schools from outside those communities.
With this funding, we are able to truly unleash these communities to chase and achieve their dreams. Imagine the possibilities!
Your Voice Matters
Everyone has the right to a voice in the decisions that affect their health and quality of life. Our goal is to ensure those who have traditionally been excluded from such conversations are elevated and empowered to participate and help lead the charge.
Please fill out a brief survey regarding community health and wellbeing in your neighborhood that will help shape and guide our collaborative efforts moving forward. Your voice can make all the difference.
Collaborative Partners
Partners in the Healthy Outdoor Communities initiative make it all possible. If your organization would like to participate in or sponsor this initiative, please contact us.