Phillips County programs aim to inspire youth, grow community
Phillips County Courthouse (Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate)
Helena and Phillips County are places of untapped potential, brimming with rich history, resilient people, and a strong desire for progress.
When I stepped into my roles as executive director of Delta Magic and the Phillips County Chamber of Commerce eight months ago, I knew the challenges ahead were significant — but so were the opportunities. The work we're doing now is a testament to what's possible when we come together to solve long-standing challenges and build a brighter future.
One of the Chamber's primary focuses has been revitalizing Helena's downtown area, which has suffered from decades of neglect. Dilapidated buildings and insufficient infrastructure have hindered economic growth and community pride. To address this, we formed a joint commission, uniting organizations like Main Street Helena, the A&P Commission, and the Historic Downtown Commission to create actionable solutions.
We've recently partnered with a real estate planner from Downtown Redevelopment Services to develop a comprehensive real estate plan for Helena. After engaging community members in candid conversations about the fine line between redevelopment and gentrification, we identified the types of businesses, like restaurants and a grocery store, that could thrive here.
One of our most exciting prospects is Big River Grocery, a full-service, cooperatively owned grocery store that marks a significant milestone as we move to address food insecurity and create a community hub. The co-op encourages residents to claim a stake in their community's infrastructure and health while also providing living-wage jobs, benefits and part-time employment for local youth. With support from a Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) grant, we've identified three potential locations within a 15-minute radius of Cherry Street.
Revitalization is about more than just buildings or businesses; it's about ensuring that progress benefits all residents. Our goal is to build a thriving Helena that doesn't displace its people but instead uplifts and creates opportunities for everyone. This plan not only provides a roadmap for revitalization but also serves as a catalyst to align community vision around achievable goals.
One of Delta Magic's programs is Rising Leaders, which equips high school seniors with financial literacy, civic engagement and leadership skills. Our fall 2024 cohort exceeded expectations, particularly during their capstone project — a community bonfire and outdoor movie night that delighted more than 220 families. Watching our students successfully navigate challenges like securing permits and presenting their ideas to the city council was inspiring.
Perhaps the most heartening outcome of Rising Leaders has been its ability to bridge divides. In a town where private, public, and charter schools often operate in silos, our program has brought students together in meaningful ways. Their camaraderie has not only fostered unity among peers but has also spread to families and school communities.
This spring, at the request of the 2024 cohort, we're not only extending the program, but we're adding more students and making plans for another community capstone project.
With continued support from organizations such as the Walton Family Foundation, in 2025 Delta Magic is tackling even more ambitious projects:
The Helena Miles Club: With group sessions designed collaboratively to fit everyone's schedule, the club is a welcoming community that encourages people of all fitness levels to explore the outdoors through walking, running and biking in the natural beauty of Arkansas. Whether you're new to outdoor activities or a seasoned enthusiast, the club offers the perfect opportunity to improve your well-being while making new friends and discovering local trails.
A new podcast series: Our upcoming Delta Magic Podcast will share stories of Helena's people and businesses, including features on Delta Dirt Distillery and other local leaders.
Monthly community forums: The Delta Magic Hour is a virtual forum to bridge communication gaps and bring stakeholders together for collaborative discussions about our vision for a growing and thriving downtown.
Each of these initiatives aligns with our broader mission of community engagement and development. For example, beautification efforts like creating parks and restoring properties are a key part of the real estate plan. To ensure transparency and inclusivity, we're hosting community meetings to gather input, address concerns, and align our vision with residents' needs.
Revitalizing a community takes time, persistence, and a belief in what's possible. Whether it's through empowering our youth, fostering partnerships, or reimagining our downtown, we're proving that the Delta's magic lies not just in its history but in its people — and their hope for the future.
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