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.
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!
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 generous funding to support six years of work benefiting underserved children, youth, and families of color in Acres Homes and Third Ward.
With this funding, we are able to truly unleash these communities to chase and achieve their dreams. Imagine the possibilities!
To be a part of HOC community meetings via Zoom, sign up to get meeting invites HERE.
HOC's Report to Community DRAFT
An Introduction to Healthy Outdoor Communities
The final draft will be available here soon.
Community-Based HOC
Funding Awardees to Date
