- What does the Department of Community Programs do?
Initiated in 1996 to address specific issues and concerns of Little Rock citizens, the Department of Community Programs contracts with community-based organizations and other non-profit organizations to assist in youth development, helping people to self-sufficiency, and programming to fight substance abuse.
- What kinds of programs does the Department of Community Programs support?
We provide funding, technical and administrative support to over 50 programs. Some of our programs include the Youth Initiative Project-targeting gang involvement; Adolescent Treatment- assisting with substance abuse treatment for youth; and the Capacity Building Initiative- providing self-sustaining resources to youth development and public service organizations in the Little Rock community.
- Does Community Programs provide direct services?
Community Programs does not provide direct services. We contract with local community non-profit entities such as community-based organizations, hospitals, and government agencies to provide services.
- What is an RFP, and what is the process?
RFP stands for Request for Proposals. This is the process that the Department of Community Programs uses to award contracts to agencies and organizations. if you are interested in knowing if the Department is advertising any RFP's at this time, please visit our Funding Opportunities page.
- Do we provide training and technical assistance?
Yes, at the request of local citizens and organizations we provide opportunities for training and technical assistance.
- I have (or I know someone who has) a drug abuse problem. Can you help?
We can help you to find help. We fund a number of quality drug and alcohol abuse programs that are listed in our resource guide on Substance Abuse at our website, or call us at out office and we will refer you to a substance abuse treatment provider.
- I am new to the City, what programs for children do you recommend?
Through the Department of Community Programs, the City of Little Rock funds over $1.5 million per year in After-School and youth development programs. To see what program is near you and of interest to your children, visit our website’s Funded Partners page.
- Can you help me (or my child) find a job?
Yes. You may link to the City's Human Resources pages from our website to view their current job listings. We can also refer you to programs that provide job training and education, and other services that will prepare you for full-time employment. If you are from ages 16-21 and are a resident or a student in Little Rock, then you can apply for our Summer Youth Employment Program. Youth work at least 20 hours per week and typically make $1,000 during the summer. Many of the summer programs funded Community Programs offer employment to youth. Contact those organizations directly for information by looking on our website on the Funded Partners page.