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

Grant Opportunities: AARP Community Challenge & State Farm Neighborhood Assist

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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)

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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

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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

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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

Rio Grande City Comprehensive Planning Public Meetings

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The Working on Wellness Environments team is working with the City of Rio Grande City and Texas Target Communities to begin its comprehensive planning process. The groups, with the help of the local task force known as team ¡Adelante Rio Grande!, have conducted 3 public meetings with members of the local community to gather input. Citizens highlighted needed improvements in active and healthy infrastructure, pollution, preservation, and more. This is the first of many feedback opportunities that will help guide and create the city’s comprehensive plan. For more information on how we can support your community with healthy planning and engagement, visit wowe.tamu.edu.

The Comprehensive Planning Process was featured in the Rio Review, the City of Rio Grande City’s official newsletter, highlighting what a comprehensive plan is and the phases needed to complete the plan. Click here to read the feature.