Since we started in 2006, ASN has hosted, facilitated, and coordinated community programs that provide visible models of change, respond to community needs, and provide opportunities for involvement.  Throughout all of our programs we are mindful of our mission and inclusive of three cornerstones: education, innovation, and collaboration.

Local Food
ASN currently coordinates food and farm programs, such as the ASN Local Food Club that operates through www.littlerock.locallygrown.net. The club helps make local farms and farming more viable by increasing farm visibility, providing an additonal marketing outlet, connecting members with farmers, and allowing farmers to sell at market prices without losing a day on the farm. Members learn about the local food system and gain a direct means of supporting local farmers.The Local Food Club operates weekly and also offers periodic workshops and educational events.

Youth Programs
We are available to present at your school or agency and to consult with you regarding program and partnership possibilities. A primary focus of our youth programs at this time is Felder Farm.  This summer we're hosting From the Ground Up Summer Day Camp at Felder Farm for youth from the surrounding neighborhood and providing job training and employment experience for Felder students.  We're looking for volunteers for this program so contact anytime for an application.  The From the Ground Up Summer Camp has been made possible by support from the Arkansas Community Foundation and the City of Little Rock Commission for Children, Youth, and Families.

This fall we'll be working with Felder students and teachers to facilitate farm and food based education and financial literacy programs.  As always, contact us for information or to get involved.

Prior initiatives include:
Green Playhouse Competition Youth Showcase; Innovation Alley Youth Showcase; and Green on the Silver Screen, environmental education and filmaking. One of the films created as part of the Green on the Silver Screen project is featured on this page.  This film was created by Shynia and Chloe and remains one of the best films on Little Rock community gardens that has ever been made.  Pretty impressive for two fifth grader film producers. A couple of the winners of the green playhouse competition are on display at our offices, so check them out next time you're in the area.

Community Education
ASN connects you to community resources. If you are looking for a speaker or presenter on a sustainability topic or a general presentation on greening your lifestyle, business, or community please contact us. We offer periodic hands-on workshops to our members and supporters including: green cleaning products, shiitake mushrooms, worm composting, houseplant care and transplanting, natural mineral cosmetics, bicycle maintenance, and more.  We also work in conjunction with our partners to host presentations and discussions on sustainability topics.  Past examples include: farmer dinners and renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Project Assistance and Networking
ASN can help with community projects that promote sustainable development.  As a Network, we can connect you with others who will help develop your initiative.  We often assist with fundraising and publicity, and in some instances we can provide fiscal sponsorship and tax form assistance for new non-profit projects.  If you're starting a new business or non-profit that will help make our community more sustainable, contact us today for assistance and ideas.

PAST PROGRAMMING

Natural State Expo ASN coordinated the Natural State Expo, a one-day event celebrating community resources for sustainable development, in 2006, 2007, and 2008. You can view photos from the Expos on our photos page.  Though we won't be coordinating a 2009 Expo, we remain committed to coordinating quality, innovative events to educate, inspire, and motivate attendees to network and develop community relationships.  We'll continue planning and preparing for future events so don't be surprised when the Natural State Expo returns with a new and innovative focus and form.

Recycles Bike Cooperative
Throughout 2007 and 2008 ASN was home to Recycles Bike Coop, a community-run and volunteer operated bicycle shop. In that time, we recycled countless bicycles and many members of the community learned the basics of bicycle maintenance. Contact us for more info about the bike coop.