Working on Wellness Environments
Working on Wellness Environments (WOW-E) is a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension multidisciplinary community development program

Pilot-testing Walkability from local Middle School to the Park

by

In collaboration with Rio Grande City Parks and Recreation and Working on Wellness Environments, RGCCISD Veterans Middle School Student Council worked to pilot-test walkability between their middle school and Miriam Vale Park. This area currently lacks some sidewalks, crosswalks, and walkways. Rio Grande City Parks and Recreation applied for a WOW-E Community Challenge to pilot-test the infrastructure. Pilot-testing occurred for one week. The Parks Department is currently Working with WOW-E Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to develop design concepts for more permanent changes.

“I know parents have been calling in regards to the sidewalks. Following this project, kids have already told me they feel safer.”

Frank Eguia
Rio Grande City Parks and Recreation Director

Grant Opportunities: AARP Community Challenge & State Farm Neighborhood Assist

by

AARP Community Challenge

“The AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to fund quick-action projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages. This year, applications will be accepted for projects to improve public spaces, housing, transportation and civic engagement; support diversity, equity and inclusion; build engagement for programs under new federal laws; and pursue innovative ideas that support people age 50 or older. “

The AARP Community Challenge Grant is now open until March 22, 5pm (ET) https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/

State Farm Neighborhood Assist

“With more submissions and more grants, State Farm Neighborhood Assist® is going bigger on building stronger neighborhoods together in 2022. In celebration of the 100th anniversary of State Farm®, we’re awarding 100 $25,000 grants (vs. 40 grants in previous years) to causes making a difference in their communities.”

To learn more about/apply for the State Farm Neighborhood Assist Grant visit https://www.neighborhoodassist.com/

Submissions open on February 16th at 1pm (ET)

Rio Grande City Public Library StoryWalk (TM)

by

In partnership with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s Working on Wellness Environment’s team, the Rio Grande City Public Library held its first-ever StoryWalk(TM). The event was held at Miriam S. Vale Municipal Park in Rio Grande City, TX. StoryWalk(TM) combines literature and physical activity and places a children’s story along a walking path. The WOW-E team worked with local librarian Norma Fultz, the City of Rio Grande City, and community volunteers to bring the StoryWalk(TM) to life. To read more about StoryWalk(TM) click here.

If you would like more information on how you can start a StoryWalk(TM) in your community, reach out to a WOW-E team member.

Pilot-testing traffic calming, bike lanes, and crosswalks at Romeo T. Flores Park in Zapata

by

After attending the Youth Planning academy held this summer, youth health ambassadors from Zapata County saw the opportunity to make improvements to their local park. Working with the WOW-E team, the youth health ambassadors conducted a basic site inventory and observations. The group was able to pilot-test crosswalks, curb extensions, a bike lane, a protected walking lane, and wayfinding. Youth ambassadors, law enforcement, and local park-goers noticed a change in vehicle speed once the temporary infrastructure was in place. Next, the health youth ambassadors will work with the WOW-E team to create a report to present to the county commissioner’s court.

The health youth ambassadors pilot-test was featured in the Zapata County News.

Grant Opportunity: (RISE) Rural Innovation Stronger Economy Grant

by

What does this program do?

The Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grant Program offers grant assistance to create and augment high-wage jobs, accelerate the formation of new businesses, support industry clusters and maximize the use of local productive assets in eligible low-income rural areas.

Who may apply?

Eligible applicants are rural jobs accelerator partnerships with expertise in delivering economic and job training programs, consisting of the following:

  • Non-profit entities
  • State entities
  • Tribal entities
  • Institutions of higher education
  • Public bodies

To learn more/apply visit: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/rural-innovation-stronger-economy-rise-grants