The City of Hot Springs was recognized as a “Thriving Community” by the Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention for its Growing Healthy Communities work during the past year. “Thriving Community,” the highest designation awarded by ArCOP, is based on the city’s efforts to become a healthier community through data collection, environmental changes and policy changes. Hot Springs was among eight communities in Arkansas to receive the top award. In addition, 12 Arkansas communities received the Blossoming Community designation, and 17 received Emerging Community status.
”This new level of recognition for achievement is due to the hard work of all of the Growing Healthy Communities-Hot Springs (GHCHS) committee members, volunteers, and community sponsors,” said Parks & Trails Director Jean Wallace, GHCHS Walkability Committee coordinator. “Congratulations go to each of them for their dedication to growing a healthy Hot Springs.”
Since 2009, the Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention (ArCOP) has been helping Arkansas communities build capacity to reduce obesity through its Growing Healthy Communities program. ArCOP aims to improve the health of all Arkansas communities by increasing access to physical activity and healthy eating to reduce and prevent obesity, and by implementing environmental and policy changes that support healthy living. Through programming, training, and funding opportunities, the coalition works towards its goal to increase the percentage of Arkansans of all ages who have access to healthy and affordable food and who engage in regular physical activity. Questions about ArCOP may be directed to Katrina Betancourt, Chair Elect, at Katrina.betancourt@arkansasobesity.org or (501) 581-2390.