A movement to uplift families in crisis and strengthen communities has officially launched off in Jefferson County, Arkansas. The 100 Families Initiative, designed to help families transition from crisis to stability and onto career, was met with support from local leaders, community partners, and residents during the launch event.
The event, held at Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK), was attended by a broad coalition of elected officials, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions. Among those present were Jefferson County elected officials, members of the Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from organizations like Exodus Life and the Arkansas Minority Health Commission.
Dr. Tyrone Jackson, President of Southeast Arkansas College, welcomed attendees, emphasizing the importance of education and workforce development in supporting struggling families.
The 100 Families Initiative, which has seen success in other Arkansas counties, aims to break cycles of poverty and incarceration by connecting families with essential resources. A key component is a case management system called HopeHub that connects all service providers in a community to help a family's case. The program connects families with support in areas such as housing, employment, education, mental health, and addiction recovery.
Paul Chapman, Director of Restore Hope, highlighted the transformative impact the initiative has had in other communities, citing a 50% reduction in foster care cases, a 20% drop in crime, and a 30% decrease in local incarceration rates in Fort Smith. “This model works because it brings together law enforcement, service providers, faith-based organizations, and businesses, all working toward the common goal of stabilizing families,” he said.
Jefferson County Judge Earnest Brown echoed the importance of collaboration, particularly in addressing the urgent issue of juvenile gun violence. The county recently implemented an evidence-based strategy called Group Violence Intervention (GVI) to tackle a spike in juvenile gun crime. “We started this initiative to curb juvenile violence five years ago, and we have seen firsthand the difference it makes when a community unites for a shared purpose,” he said. The city has seen impressive results with the strategy. It has gone more than 400 days without a juvenile homicide.
The mayor of Pine Bluff, Vivian Flowers, along with other city leaders, reinforced a commitment to the 100 Families Initiative. “This kind of progress does not happen by accident. It takes a commitment to collaboration, civic service, and crisis intervention,” the mayor remarked.
As the initiative moves forward, organizers are calling on businesses, churches, and community organizations to join the alliance. “If you’re not yet a part of this movement, now is the time to sign the Declaration of Participation and commit to making a difference,” said Latisha Brunson of the 100 Families Initiative in Jefferson County.
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