Enriched Communities

Public Spaces

Nonprofit Organizations, Social Services, & Foundations

Religious/Faith-Based

Note: *Exact numbers not available; estimates based on organization websites and Mobile community resource guides.

The Enriched Communities pillar’s work will focus on increasing access to and the quality of this programming

Current State

Mobile is home to 15 community centers, 50+ parks, 11 libraries, and 14 cultural centers.

Yet many young people report that they don’t always feel safe, welcomed, or included in these spaces.

Strict curfew policies, negative media portrayals of youth, and concerns about violence all contribute to a sense of vulnerability and exclusion. As one student explained:

“Businesses and community groups should offer safe spaces for youth to socialize and recreate.”

Despite the number of community assets available, many remain underutilized. As a result, too many young people lack the “third spaces” they need to belong, develop, and lead.

Future State

We envision a Mobile where every neighborhood is alive with opportunity for young people. In this future, youth have access to safe, inclusive gathering spaces, a robust network of after-school and summer programs, and community organizations that work together seamlessly.

It’s a future where every young person feels they belong—and knows their community believes in their potential.

What the Partnership Will Do

Build a shared ecosystem of quality programs

Through collaboration, information-sharing, and advocacy.

Expand access to OSP

By reducing barriers and strengthening partnerships between schools and program providers.

Together, these efforts will transform Mobile’s community assets into engines of belonging and opportunity for every child.

Our Focus

Expanding Access to Out-of-School Programming (OSP)

We’re working to remove barriers so more families can access high-quality after-school and summer programs across Mobile County.

Building a Shared Ecosystem of Quality Programming

We aim to strengthen communication, coordination, and resource sharing among nonprofits and agencies that serve youth and families.

Our Approach:

Partner with schools and youth providers to bring after-school and summer programs directly onto elementary and middle school campuses.
Collaborate with public transportation partners to design better, more reliable access to programs.
Work with local parks and recreation departments to extend hours and expand programming at key recreation centers.
Coordinate with law enforcement to ensure recreation spaces are safe, well-monitored, and welcoming during program hours.