Community Impact Award
Better Community Development (BCD) has been serving low-income, underserved and disadvantaged individuals and families in Little Rock’s 12th Street corridor since 1981.
“BCD is a faith-based organization dedicated to strengthening the community and transforming lives,” Deborah Bell, director of BCD, said. “Not only do BCD’s programs impact the lives of individuals, we also invest in the community’s physical infrastructure by building affordable housing for low-to-moderate income families.”
The mission of BCD is to improve the quality of life for underserved, disadvantaged families. “I strongly believe in the goals of BCD to address the systemic problems, to restore lives, rebuild the community and empower others to live a better life,” Bell said.
Through collaboration with partners and strong relationships with the community, BCD serves “whoever needs services with unconditional love.” BCD’s latest project is the EmPowerment Center, which offers a state-licensed treatment program through the Hoover Treatment Center and permanent housing for those in need at the Empowerment Village. The 25,000 square-foot LEED facility also has office space, conference rooms and classrooms.
Starting with $15,000, the organization has a budget of $1.5 million today. Within the past year, BCD has provided more than 250,000 units of service to children and families across the state.
“Today, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. William H. Robinson Jr., BCD continues its impact and reaches thousands of people in need,” Bell said. “BCD remains a beacon of hope for a healthier and more just community for all.”
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