Providence Park: A Community Where Dignity Takes Root and Hope Grows

by Vivian Brittenum, director of business services and special projects, Central Arkansas Planning and Development District - June 15, 2026

For her leadership service project, Vivian Brittenum, LeadAR Class 21,  shares her work on Providence Park, a transformative tiny home community in Little Rock.

Providence Park holds a very special place in my heart because it represents so much more than housing. It is a true community filled with hope, compassion, dignity, and opportunity. Every time I visit Providence Park, I am reminded that people simply need support, encouragement, and a chance to rebuild their lives in an environment where they feel valued and respected.

Providence Park is an innovative tiny home community in Little Rock that was created to help individuals experiencing homelessness transition into stability and independence. The organization provides safe housing, supportive services, workforce opportunities, and a sense of community for its residents. What makes Providence Park so impactful is that it focuses not only on providing shelter, but also on restoring dignity, building life skills, and helping neighbors create a pathway toward long term success and self-sufficiency.

One of the meaningful things about Providence Park is that the individuals who live there are referred to as neighbors rather than homeless. Referring to residents as neighbors gives them a sense of respect, belonging, accountability, and community. It reminds each person that they are valued and that they are part of something bigger than themselves. I believe that simple shift in language helps restore dignity and creates an environment where people can truly begin to heal and move forward. Another inspiring aspect of Providence Park is the way agriculture is incorporated into the community. The orchards and gardens are not just beautiful spaces. They are tools for learning, healing, and growth. Neighbors have the opportunity to work directly with the land by planting, maintaining, and harvesting fresh fruits and vegetables. There is something powerful about watching people care for something and seeing the results of their hard work overtime.

The agricultural program teaches neighbors how to become more self-sufficient in practical and meaningful ways. They learn skills that can help provide food for themselves and others while also building confidence and independence. Growing their own produce gives many residents a sense of pride and accomplishment that cannot be replaced. It creates ownership and purpose while helping them reconnect with their abilities and strengths.

Another thing I admire about the program is that neighbors are encouraged to sell the overflow of the fruits and vegetables they grow. This not only helps create an additional source of income, but it also teaches entrepreneurship, responsibility, and financial awareness. It allows residents to see that their work has value and that they can contribute in positive and productive ways. That experience can be life-changing for someone working to regain stability and confidence.

I am incredibly grateful to serve as a member of the Supervisory Committee because it gives me the opportunity to be directly involved in such meaningful work. Being part of Providence Park has been both humbling and rewarding for me personally. I have witnessed firsthand the resilience of the neighbors and the dedication of everyone who pours their time and energy into making the community successful.

Providence Park continues to show me what can happen when people are met with compassion, opportunity, and genuine support. It is a place where lives are being restored every day. I am proud to be connected to a community that believes in investing in people, helping them grow, and reminding them that their circumstances do not define their future.